Inspiring Leadership Lessons from Tattoos on the Heart

Abstract

Applied Summary Paper: Leadership Philosophy [Name] “Tattoos on the Heart” is a collection of very inspiring stories by Greg Boyle which helps the reader understand the power of good leadership qualities especially in challenging situation. While analyzing these stories, one is able to see great leadership styles and qualities as expressed by Boyle and some of the characters within some of the stories that Boyle help to reform. Focusing on Boyle, it is open that he displays his leadership potentials through his empathy, compassion and dedication to serve marginalized communities that even the society might have given up on due to their weird gangster addictions (Boyle, 2011). While reflecting on Boyle empathy and compassion, it is open that in all the stories, this great man displays abilities beyond reasonable doubts to connect deeply with characters that felt invisible due to their weird behaviors. In one of the stories “Luis Transformation” Boyle interact with Luis who was struggling with gang violence addictions thus not finding his worth or purpose of his life (Boyle, 2011). Fortunately, Boyle positive attitude towards change led him approach Luis with compassion and love inspiring hope in him and making him realize his self-worth. Boyle encouragement to Luis enhances trust and connection helping this lost man find his purpose thus transforming. Boyle also displayed servant and visionary leadership potentials. As a servant leader, Boyle is able to place the needs and the well-being of the gang-members above his personal gain thus working tirelessly towards their transformation. He is a man who embraced the philosophy of kinship thus committing to create Homeboy Industries where the previously undermined gang members were welcomed with job training and emotional support. Boyle resilience made him continuously work towards transforming the gang members believing that they would change in the long-run. A good example is expressed in “Pedro’s Leadership” where Pedro become mentored by Boyle finding his confidence and voice through Boyle persistence and positive attitude towards helping him (Boyle, 2011). Leadership in Other Characters within Boyle Stories As much as Boyle displayed leadership qualities, other characters within his stories also displayed great leadership potentials. In “Chepe and Richie” Chepe displays empathy and community building potentials which serves as great leadership qualities (Boyle, 2011). He becomes a pillar in the fight against gang membership thus fighting tirelessly towards ensuring that no other young men or women joined the gangs. While reflecting on responsibility and initiative it becomes open that Fabian beats all odd to become a leader within Homeboy Industries. Through Boyle mentorship, Fabian reforms and become a mentor for new recruits. A reformation journey from being incarcerated to being a role model is a clear demonstration of the transformative power of personal guidance and accountability. Success I understand success as ones potential...