We had the good fortune of connecting with Sabrina Stabs and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Sabrina, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I believe that the best things in life can’t come without risking the loss of them. That risk may be monetary, emotional, or even physical. The greatest risk comes at the expense of all three, and that is to step outside your comfort zone. It was in enduring the fears of failure, the pressure of demanding more of myself, and sacrificing instant gratification, that I truly came to accept that the only thing that could limit my success was me. If I wasn’t willing to push myself and believe there was more to accomplish, I’d become stagnant. Slowly, my new fear became the idea I’d stop growing rather than risking where I was comfortable.
When faced with the challenge to move halfway across the country to Colorado, I was terrified. I began questioning whether it was worth risking the stability I’d been building for myself in South Florida. I took that fear as my sign that I needed to do it.
This was easily the biggest risk I’ve taken, not to mention the hardest mentally and emotionally; however, it’s reward is who I’ve grown to be through it and where my life and career is now. By risking what I’ve had, I can confidently say I’ve gained tenfold.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I think what excites me the most about tattooing is the ability to provide a space for self expression. Sometimes, it’s bringing a meaningful tattoo to life. Other times, it’s a silly impulsive tattoo that simply brings laughter. Maybe it wasn’t easy getting to where I am, with the long hours and pinching pennies in the beginning; however, it’s hard to say it wasn’t worth it.
Not to sound sappy, but it’s those moments. Silly or sentimental, the look on my clients’ faces when they see their new tattoo always gets me. It’s like I bought a piece of them to light for others to see.
All I want, and hope I can do in my work, is to encourage others to be themselves and find confidence expressing it.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Having just recently moved here, there’s still so much for me to see! I have found a few gems I’d love to share with my friends. Within the city, I’d take them to Highlands Cork & Coffee for a homey breakfast and coffee, Occidental for great drinks with a great staff, and Work & Class for a delicious dinner. I’m obsessed with the outdoor recreation here. Some of my must sees are Garden of The Gods, St. Marie’s, and the Botanic Gardens, along with any hike in the national park. A trip to Denver wouldn’t be complete without checking out Meow Wolf and all its wonders!
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to thank my shop Rebel Muse Denver for providing me not only with a supportive environment but also continuous guidance. My work has excelled tremendously in my stay there along my knowledge in running my business. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such talented artists.
Website: Sabrinastabs.com
Instagram: @sabrinastabs