Think!

Can I just say one thing?  I appreciate individuality as much as the next person.  I just want to say -- and please don't take this the wrong way -- can we put a hold on all of the body art.   I cannot tell you how many people I saw today with, guaged ear lobes, tattooed faces and necks and face jewelry  (I don't mean those tiny nose rings.  I am talking about so much metal in various places around the face that it looks like a map of your summer vacation.)

I am all about self expression.  I am a child of the 80s.  I did the whole Madonna Boytoy/Like a Virgin thing.  I dressed like Cindy Lauper, Jane Child, Whitney Houston, and Pat Benatar  (I know you don't know who they are; look them up) and had multiple piercings in my ear before it was fashionable. Trust me.  I get it.  Just hear me out.

When it comes to permanent things though,  be smart.  You have all the time in the world to make a poor decision so take your time and consider.  I am not saying not to get pierced or tattooed at all.  Some of the artwork is beautiful and can be very expressive .  Just don't get it where EVERYONE can see it all the time.  Most main stream businesses will not hire anyone who does not represent what they believe are their customers' core values.  All of the physical decoration can relay the wrong message about who you are and be off putting to the customer base..  Image and perception have a marked influence on their bottom line - $$$$. Outside of the music industry, extreme sports, and I guess the WWF employment prospects for the heavily decorated will be limited.  It may not matter much to you now, but it can later.   . Right or wrong, fair or unfair it is the truth.

Besides, popular culture is fluid.  It changes like the tide.  If you look at the fashion magazines they will tell you that metallics are all the rage this spring.  They will tell you how important it is and detail how this designer or that designer are interpreting it.  Next year no one will be caught dead in metallics   It will be all about plaid, or pastels, or whatever.  Clothes are one thing, your body as a palette is another.  Many of those physical adornments cannot be  easily reversed.  Do you really think your new spouse wants to look at your ex's name tattooed across your back?  I know, I know.... you were in love.......

Here's the thing: I have never seen people with garrish facial piercings, 'all over' tattoos, and  ear guages, in any positions that do not require, a cash register, hammer, webcam, oil, pole, or french fries.   Now all of those are tools used in honorable professions and if it is your dream to make your mark there then MARK ON!  'But if you aspire to do something different, if that is merely the means to your career path and not the end - think twice especially if you are a young person just starting out.   Don't limit yourself because something was cool or seemed like a good idea at the time.   Seriously, if what was popular didn't change we would all still be wearing MC Hammer parachute pants.   What are parachute pants......?  I rest my case.