A word or short phrase in flowing script is a popular wrist tattoo design. Any word or phrase that has meaning for the wearer can be used here, from "holy," "faith" and "believe" to "relax," "breathe" and "let go." Complementary words like "love" and "hate" or two parts of a long phrase can be tattooed on both wrists, Sometimes people also get names or initials (their own or others) tattooed on their wrists.
The inside of the wrist is also a favored place for words inscribed in Sanskrit, Chinese or Japanese characters. I Ching ideograms are also a possibility in this same vein, as are runes.
Roman numbers are another common wrist tattoo, often commemorating a certain date such as an anniversary or birthday. Plain numerals are also a possibility, perhaps a lucky number (a design incorporating "lucky 13" is a classic old school tattoo) or something with special meaning to the wearer.
The nautical star is considered a good luck emblem, and one common place to have them tattooed is on the inside of the wrist. Other star designs are also often seen in the same spot.
With this tattoo design, you can literally "wear your heart on your sleeve." For some reason, this tattoo is often placed slightly off-center and is usually just a small outline in red or black ink.
Other symbols that make good small wrist tattoos are astrological and zodiac symbols, card suit symbols, alchemical symbols and musical notes or clefs.