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Adulting 101

Things you should know before getting a new tattoo

Before booking that appointment, have an idea of what you are looking for: do you want a small or large tattoo, what part of your body will you tattoo, is it a flower or a quote, and the amount of time you have. After, you will discuss the finer details with your tattoo artist.

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Three years ago, I got my first set of tattoos (a wrist and hand tattoo). To be honest, I did not read much about it. I knew it would hurt and that was it.

It did hurt, not something I would not handle, but it did hurt!

I wish I knew:

The location of the tattoo affects the level of pain. My rib tattoo was more painful than my wrist tattoo. The most painful tattoos are in regions where there is naturally less body fat (ribcage, shoulder blade, ankles, collarbone), more nerve endings (armpit, groin), or extremities (toes, fingers, face, head).

The location also affects how often the retouch sessions should be. I got a tiny tattoo on my hand, (a love, life, cross tattoo,) it was so close to my palm that it kept fading. Tattoos in such locations, palms, and sores of the feet fade faster than those on the rib, chest, etc.

Your tattoo artist should be your friend. Okay, let me rephrase that, your tattoo artist should be warm and friendly. You will be sitting in pain for a couple of minutes, it helps if the person inflicting the pain is warm or funny. My rib tattoo took over an hour and I can attest it was easier since the artist was my friend. My sister, Bella, has 4 tattoos and she cosigns this, “getting a tattoo from someone you know makes it easy to ask questions and you won’t be afraid to ask for small breaks.”

The tattoo artist should be hygienic. Ensure the place is clean and they use new, fresh-of-the-paper, needles.

Although I am yet to use it, numbing cream exists. I prefer taking the pain as a champ. However, if I ever have a long tattoo session 3 hours plus, maybe then, I will consider numbing cream.

Before booking that appointment, have an idea of what you are looking for: do you want a small or large tattoo, what part of your body will you tattoo, is it a flower or a quote, and the amount of time you have. After, you will discuss the finer details with your tattoo artist.

As mentioned, I did not research before getting my hand and wrist tattoos. Therefore, I did not know that tattoos need aftercare. It becomes a tat when ink is injected into the skin. Meaning it leaves a wound, that would should be taken care of.

Tattoo aftercare includes:

Immediately after cover the area. After the tattoo appointment, the tattoo artist will cover this fresh wound. It is covered to prevent dirt and bacteria which slows down the healing process and would lead to infections.

Use a cleanser recommended by the artist. It should be unscented and gentle. Avoid soaps with alcohol, and fragrances as these can irritate the skin.

Do not rub. Do not exfoliate your skin. Avoid any form of friction on this part. Pat your skin dry after washing. Any form of friction could result in the ink falling out.

A couple of days after getting my tattoos, the area becomes itchy. When this happened, I used a thin layer of my artist’s recommended lotion or ointments. After the itchiness comes the flake and peel. This is normal, but do not exfoliate or pick it. Picking it would lead to your ink falling out thus ruining your art.

I think taking care of your tattoo is easy. If you choose a clean and hygienic artist, cover it, and do not rub on it, you will be good to go. However, sometimes these things go south. Watch out for the following:

  • Burning sensation
  • Swelling after the first few weeks
  • Foul odor
  • Yellow or green pus
  • Warm and tender skin

In case they happen, call your tattoo artist ASAP.

Tattoo ink sacks

A tattoo ink sack is a build-up of ink-stained plasma fluid beneath the clear protective sheet (Saniderm) your tattoo artist applied. I did not experience this but my sister did. It looks like a big blister, but it is not. You should only be alarmed if the tattoo bleeds red when no red or pink ink.

Now, that you know what to expect, when will you be getting that new ink?

Looking to get a new piercing? Read the next article, Things I wish I knew before getting piercings.

Read: things you should do know getting a piercing

Adulting 101

Quarter-life crisis or Plot twist?

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Do you feel like life’s throwing you one too many curveballs lately? Welcome to your quarter-life crisis—well, I wouldn’t call it that, more like a plot twist!

If you’re in your 20s or early 30s, chances are you’ve felt that unsettling mix of confusion, anxiety, and “What am I even doing with my life?” vibe. But hey, it’s not as grim as it seems. This phase, though overwhelming, is more of a growth spurt for your mind and soul.

Here’s How to Navigate this Rollercoaster with Style

1. Embrace the Chaos, Don’t Fight It

First off, let’s normalize the chaos. Life’s not a straight path, and the sooner you accept the zig-zags, the smoother your ride will be. Remember, everyone’s story is different, so don’t compare your journey to someone else’s Instagram highlight reel.

This period of uncertainty? It’s just the universe’s way of nudging you towards something bigger and better.

2. Reflect and Redirect

Feeling lost? That’s your cue to pause and reflect. Ask yourself the deep questions: What do I really want? What makes me happy? It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers right away.

Start small—maybe it’s time to pivot in your career, explore a new hobby, or even take a solo trip to clear your mind.

The goal is to redirect your energy towards what genuinely matters to you.

3. Surround Yourself with Positivity

Your vibe attracts your tribe, so keep it positive. Hang out with people who uplift you, not those who drain your energy. And don’t forget to celebrate the small wins—whether it’s finally nailing that work project or just getting out of bed when you didn’t feel like it. Positivity breeds more positivity, and that’s what you need right now.

4. Trust the Process

Trust me, everything you’re going through is preparing you for something amazing. You might not see it now, but hindsight’s 20/20, right? So, trust the process and keep moving forward, even if it’s just one baby step at a time. Your plot twist? It’s leading to a grand finale that’ll be worth the wait.

A quarter-life crisis isn’t the end of the world; it’s just a chapter in your story. Embrace the uncertainties, learn from them, and use this time to craft a life that’s true to who you are. After all, you’re the author of your own story and this plot twist? It’s just the beginning of something epic.

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Adulting 101

Career Hopping: The Emotional Cost of Constant Reinvention

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Remember the days when people would stick to one job for life? Yeah, that’s a distant memory for most of us. These days, switching careers every few years seems to be the norm, especially among millennials and Gen Z. It’s exciting, keeps things fresh, and opens up new opportunities. But beneath the surface, career hopping can take an emotional toll that’s often overlooked.

So, what’s the real cost of constantly reinventing ourselves in the professional world. Let’s face it—career hopping is both thrilling and terrifying. On one hand, it’s all about exploring new opportunities, challenging yourself, and refusing to settle for anything less than what you deserve. On the other hand, it’s a rollercoaster of uncertainty, where each leap into the unknown comes with its own set of risks and emotional challenges.

One of the biggest pressures driving career hopping is the fear of missing out (FOMO). We’re bombarded with success stories on social media—people landing dream jobs, starting businesses, and seemingly living their best lives. It’s hard not to compare yourself and wonder if you’re falling behind. This can push us to jump from one job to another, always in search of the next big thing, but never truly settling into a role.

But here’s the thing: constantly changing jobs can be exhausting. Each new position comes with a learning curve—new skills to master, new colleagues to understand, and a new work culture to adapt to. It’s a lot to take on, and the stress can quickly add up. The excitement of a fresh start can be overshadowed by the anxiety of having to prove yourself all over again.Moreover, there’s the emotional impact of leaving behind teams and projects that you’ve invested in. It’s not just about the work; it’s about the relationships you build along the way. Saying goodbye to colleagues who’ve become friends can be tough, and starting over in a new environment can feel lonely at times.So, how can we navigate the ups and downs of career hopping without losing ourselves in the process? Here are some tips:

– Reflect on Your Goals: Before making a move, take some time to reflect on your long-term career goals. What do you really want to achieve? Will this new role bring you closer to that goal, or are you just chasing the next shiny thing?

– Embrace Lifelong Learning: Instead of hopping from one job to another, consider ways to grow within your current role. Lifelong learning—whether through courses, certifications, or new projects—can help you stay challenged and fulfilled without the need to constantly change jobs.

– Build a Support System: Career hopping can be emotionally draining, so it’s important to have a support system in place. Whether it’s friends, family, or mentors, having people to talk to about your experiences can make a huge difference.

– Prioritize Mental Health: Don’t forget to take care of your mental health. The stress of career changes can take a toll, so make sure you’re practicing self-care, whether that’s through meditation, exercise, or simply taking time to relax.In the end, career hopping isn’t inherently good or bad—it’s about how you approach it.

By being mindful of the emotional impact and making decisions that align with your long-term goals, you can enjoy the benefits of career hopping without burning out. After all, the journey is just as important as the destination.

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Adulting 101

Rediscovering Yourself Through Solo Travel: The Mental Health Benefits of Venturing Alone

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Ever considered packing your bags and hitting the road alone? It might sound a bit daunting—traveling alone, without the comfort of familiar faces—but there’s something incredibly liberating about it.

Solo travel is more than just an opportunity to explore new places; it’s a chance to reconnect with yourself in ways that everyday life rarely allows. Let’s dive into the mental health benefits of venturing out on your own, and why solo travel might just be the best therapy you didn’t know you needed.

There’s a unique kind of freedom that comes with solo travel. You’re not tied to anyone else’s schedule or preferences, and that means you get to do exactly what you want, when you want. This kind of independence can be incredibly empowering, especially in a world where we’re often expected to conform to the needs and expectations of others.

One of the most profound benefits of solo travel is the opportunity it provides for self-reflection. When you’re alone in a new environment, away from the usual distractions of daily life, you have the space to think deeply about where you’re at in life—your goals, your values, your dreams. It’s a time to reconnect with yourself and rediscover what truly matters to you.

For many, solo travel also offers a chance to confront and overcome fears. Whether it’s the fear of being alone, the fear of the unknown, or the fear of stepping out of your comfort zone, traveling solo forces you to face these anxieties head-on. And when you do, you often find that you’re much stronger and more capable than you realized. This boost in confidence can have lasting effects, helping you to tackle challenges in other areas of your life with a renewed sense of self-assurance.Moreover, solo travel encourages you to be present. Without the distractions of companions or the pressure to stick to a group itinerary, you can truly immerse yourself in the moment.

Whether it’s watching a sunrise on a deserted beach, wandering through a bustling market, or simply sitting in a café and people-watching, these moments of mindfulness can significantly reduce stress and improve your overall mental well-being.But let’s not forget about the social aspect.

Traveling alone doesn’t mean you have to be lonely. In fact, solo travelers often find it easier to meet new people. Whether it’s striking up a conversation with a fellow traveler, connecting with locals, or joining a group tour, solo travel opens up opportunities for meaningful interactions that you might not experience if you were traveling with others. These connections can be incredibly enriching, offering new perspectives and friendships that last long after the trip is over.

To make the most of your solo travel experience, here are a few tips:

– Plan Ahead, But Stay Flexible: It’s good to have a general idea of what you want to do, but don’t over-schedule. Allow yourself the freedom to change plans and explore new opportunities as they arise.

-Stay Safe: Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar places. Keep your valuables secure, and stay connected with someone back home who knows your itinerary.

– Embrace the Solitude: Take advantage of the quiet moments to reflect and recharge. Use this time to journal, meditate, or simply enjoy your own company.

– Be Open to New Experiences: Solo travel is a great opportunity to try things you wouldn’t normally do. Whether it’s tasting new foods, learning a new skill, or exploring off-the-beaten-path locations, be open to stepping outside your comfort zone.Solo travel is more than just a way to see the world; it’s a journey into yourself. It’s about discovering who you are when no one’s watching, and finding strength in your own company.

Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a month-long adventure, traveling alone offers a unique opportunity for personal growth and mental rejuvenation. So next time you feel the urge to escape, consider going solo—you might just find that the person you meet along the way is yourself.

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