WAYS, an acronym for ‘Why Aren’t You Smiling’, is an endearing phrase and a constant reminder to find happiness and positivity even in the darkest of times. This message of resilience has inspired body art enthusiasts to get WAYS Tattoos. These impactful tattoos inspire us to trust our instincts and look for the good in every situation. Usually etched in deep black and red ink, you can also ask your artist to outline it with other colours to make the tattoo more vibrant. Discover 8 simple WAYS tattoos, with their meanings, in this article. Scroll down to read more now!
Meaning of WAYS tattoo
Why Aren’t You Smiling tattoos gently remind wearers to smile and embrace life’s happy moments. These works of art carry a poignant message that tells the wearer to question anything that interrupts their joyful moments. They ask them to focus on the positive and develop an optimistic attitude. People who get this tattoo prioritize their mental well-being and value resilience. WAYS can also stand for other phrases depending on the wearer. Some common alternate interpretations include:
We Are Your Strength – These artworks represent the constant support and motivation the wearer receives from their family and friends. Where Are You Standing – They inspire the wearer to develop mindfulness and remain aware of their surroundings. What Are You Seeking – This interpretation encourages the wearer to introspect and discover their desires. These tattoos encourage the wearer to strive harder to achieve their goals in life.
Ways tattoos are among the popular trendy tattoo designs. From simple, just the acronym tattoos to elegant motifs around WAYS, we have listed 8 ideas below. Scroll down to find them.
8 Spectacular Ways to Get Tattoos
Dive in to discover the vivid meanings of Ways artworks. Whether you want a tattoo on your hand, neck or face, we have them all on our list below. Check out the designs.
1. Minimalist WAYS tattoo with butterfly
Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team
This tattoo shows a beautiful butterfly above the acronym ‘WAYS’. Etched in deep black ink, the tattoo stands out prominently. Butterflies are symbols of development and change. They undergo a metamorphosis after birth and become stronger and more beautiful. Together with the WAYS, this tattoo indicates a journey from difficult times to a state of joy and positivity. It reminds the wearer to leave negative thoughts and past setbacks behind.
2. Acronym WAYS Tattoo with butterfly
Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team
This tattoo features a colorful butterfly etched in an illustrative manner. The words ‘Why Aren’t You Smiling’ below represent the wearer’s positive outlook on life. It shows that they are hoping for better times ahead. The butterfly above suggests renewal and transformative beauty. Together they suggest an expectation for a joyful life. This artwork reminds the wearer to embrace psychological growth and achieve a fulfilling life.
3. AYS Acronym Tattoo
Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team
This tattoo features the words ‘Why Aren’t You Smiling’ in small letters. It suggests resilience in the face of adversity. The words encourage the wearer to reflect on their life and relive the joyful moments. With this tattoo, the wearer is reminded to prioritize their emotional happiness and mental well-being. This will contribute to their positive development in some way.
4. WAYS Tattoo Behind Ear
Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team
The Ways behind the ear tattoo embodies a personal meaning. The back of the ear is a private space that is not completely visible. This tattoo can serve as a subtle, daily reminder for the wearer to maintain a positive attitude. It reflects the wearer’s inner strength. The artwork motivates them to keep smiling, even during difficult times.
5. WAYS Tattoo on arm
Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team
This tattoo is placed on a more visible part of the body. It often reminds the wearer to think optimistically and find reasons to smile. Arms are often associated with strength, so the WAYS tattoo on the forearm represents the wearer’s decision to choose happiness above all else. It suggests their supreme mental strength to overcome obstacles.
6. AYS tattoo on hand
Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team
This hand tattoo reflects the wearer’s commitment to always live happily. It is easily visible, allowing the wearer to remind themselves of their life mantra. It encourages the wearer to make a proactive effort to maintain a happy state. The bold letters are etched in deep black ink. It looks striking on the hand.
7. AYS tattoo on face
Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team
This face tattoo represents the wearer’s unwavering dedication to their message. It shows that they prioritize happiness no matter what. The design can serve as a strong public statement that they are committed to building a life full of joy. Additionally, this face tattoo can also serve as a way for the wearer to motivate others to embrace a life full of happiness.
8. AYS tattoo on neck
Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team
This tattoo features the acronym WAYS in bold black ink. The neck position allows the wearer to display it at will. It suggests a bold statement from the wearer to stay cheerful and content. The neck is the connection between the mind and the heart, therefore this neck tattoo can indicate the meaning of connecting happy thoughts with positive emotions.
If you want to embrace a life full of positive thoughts and happy moments, a Ways tattoo is the perfect option for you. This simple lettering carries a deep meaning. It inspires its wearers to focus on the good and leave the rest behind. The letters can be sketched on their own or decorated with delicate motifs like butterflies and flowers to emphasize the meaning. You can print it on your arms, neck, and legs if you want to hide it sometimes. However, consider placing it on your hand and face if you plan on showing it off all the time. Scroll up to find 8 ways tattoo ideas for inspiration.
Was this article helpful? 
ReviewerAuthorEditorFact Check
Ruslan Millinhton has been tattooing since 2015. Originally from the city of Sumy, Ukraine, he now spends most of his time in Charlotte, NC, USA. He has been tattooing for over 10 years. He works primarily in color and black and gray realism.
Read the full biography of Ruslan Millinhton
Joyce Joyson is a beauty and lifestyle writer with over a year of experience in creating short-form content for the beauty, fashion and lifestyle niches. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in History, Political Science and Geography from IIS University and a Master’s degree in Mass Communication and Journalism from Kristu Jayanti College.
Read Joyce Joyson’s full biography
Anjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hair and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these areas. She has 7 years of experience and her philosophy on hair and skin care is simple: if you love it and take care of it, it will be healthy.
Read Anjali Sayee’s full biography
Gracia Odile is a teacher turned beauty and lifestyle writer with three years of professional experience. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English from St. Stephen’s College, a Master’s degree in Anthropology from the University of Madras and a Diploma in Education from GGSIPU.
Read the full biography of Gracia Odile
Leave a Reply