Life is full of challenges, ups and downs, and moments when it feels like everything is slipping away. But through it all, one thing remains constant: life goes on.
This powerful and simple phrase reminds us that no matter what we’re facing, time keeps moving, and we have the strength to push forward. A “Life Goes On” tattoo is a beautiful way to carry this reminder with you every day.
Whether you’re going through a tough time or simply want a design that speaks to your inner strength, a tattoo featuring the words “life goes on” can be both meaningful and stunning. Here, I’ll share “Life Goes On” tattoo ideas to inspire your next ink and show you how to make this powerful phrase personal to you.
Typewriter Font
If you love vintage styles, a typewriter font can add a classic touch to your “life goes on” tattoo. The bold yet simple lettering makes a strong statement about resilience.
Tattoo Meaning: The typewriter font symbolizes the permanence of words, like an unbreakable narrative.
Placement: A great choice for the wrist or along the side of the ribs.
Why I Love It: The typewriter font reminds me of how words can stand the test of time and help us through even the hardest moments.
Calligraphy with Scroll
For a more intricate and old-school feel, a calligraphy-style tattoo with the words “life goes on” on an old scroll can be a stunning way to express endurance. This design blends elegance with the idea of history and timelessness.
Tattoo Meaning: The scroll represents history, growth, and the passage of time.
Placement: It looks great on the upper arm, upper back, or along the forearm.
Why I Love It: I adore the intricate details of this design and how it portrays the journey of life.
Infinity Symbol
Combine the message “life goes on” with an infinity symbol, representing the idea that life is continuous and unending. The infinity loop can beautifully weave through the words, blending both ideas into one cohesive design.
Tattoo Meaning: The infinity symbol reminds us that life’s flow never truly stops.
Placement: Ideal for the wrist, ankle, or collarbone.
Why I Love It: I think the infinity symbol is perfect because it captures the endlessness of life and the ongoing nature of time.
Sunrise
A sunrise paired with “life goes on” is a beautiful symbol of hope. The rising sun suggests new beginnings, and the steady movement of the sun each day reminds us that no matter how hard things get, the world keeps turning.
Tattoo Meaning: The sunrise symbolizes renewal, hope, and a fresh start.
Placement: This design would look amazing on the forearm or the side of the ribcage.
Why I Love It: I love how the sunrise is a natural symbol for new beginnings, making this tattoo feel incredibly hopeful.
Dandelion Seeds
The phrase “life goes on” written along the trail of dandelion seeds flying away creates a feeling of freedom and the idea of letting go of the past to move forward.
Tattoo Meaning: Dandelion seeds are often seen as symbols of wishes, growth, and change.
Placement: Ideal for the wrist, forearm, or even behind the ear.
Why I Love It: The dandelion represents change, and I love how the tattoo combines that with the message of resilience.
Ocean Waves
The ebb and flow of ocean waves naturally embody the cyclical nature of life. The phrase “life goes on” written within or over waves shows how life moves, like the tide, through all its ups and downs.
Tattoo Meaning: Ocean waves symbolize life’s natural rhythms and the constant flow of time.
Placement: Perfect for a larger area like the back, side, or thigh.
Why I Love It: The ocean represents peace and strength to me, and this tattoo design gives off such a calming vibe.
Heartbeat Line
A heartbeat line running through the phrase “life goes on” reminds us that as long as we’re breathing, life continues. It’s a perfect tattoo to represent endurance, especially through tough times.
Tattoo Meaning: The heartbeat symbolizes life itself, and the tattoo is a reminder to keep going.
Placement: This tattoo looks great on the wrist, chest, or side of the ribcage.
Why I Love It: It’s such a simple design, but it carries so much depth. Life is precious, and this tattoo reminds me to never stop moving forward.
Clock Face
A clock with no hands can represent timelessness and the idea that life continues on, regardless of how we measure it. Adding the phrase “life goes on” within the clock makes it a poignant symbol.
Tattoo Meaning: A clock with no hands shows that time keeps moving forward, even if we don’t always see it.
Placement: Perfect for the forearm, back, or chest.
Why I Love It: This design speaks to me because it reminds me that time doesn’t stop for anyone—life keeps moving.
Mountain Silhouette
Mountains are often symbols of strength and stability. The phrase “life goes on” written at the base of a mountain represents the idea of enduring through challenges and standing strong through adversity.
Tattoo Meaning: The mountain represents obstacles, and the phrase symbolizes overcoming them.
Placement: Looks amazing on the arm, side, or even the back.
Why I Love It: I love how mountains signify strength, and this tattoo feels like a reminder that we can face anything that comes our way.
Conclusion
A “Life Goes On” tattoo can be a deep, meaningful way to express your personal resilience and the journey of life.
Whether you choose a simple text design, something nature-inspired, or a more artistic concept, each tattoo carries its own unique message.
I hope these ideas have inspired you to find a tattoo that resonates with you, serves as a reminder of your strength, and reminds you that, no matter what, life keeps moving forward.
