To Tattoo or Not to Tattoo?

Tattoos have long been misunderstood in professional settings, often seen as a mark of rebellion or unprofessionalism. However, times are changing. Today, tattoos are increasingly recognized as an art form and a means of personal expression. For a female leader, displaying her tattoos can symbolize courage—the courage to show up as her true self in a world that often demands conformity.

As I approached my 40th birthday, I decided I was going to get my first tattoo. I had waited until then only to be certain of what I wanted it to be of. I opted for the tree you see in the photo. At the time, the first letter of our four children's names spelled "TREE", so the image seemed fitting to represent some of the most important people in my world. The small birds represented each one of them. We've since adopted a fifth child, so a 5th bird was added!

Historically, women in leadership have faced immense pressure to conform to traditional standards of appearance to be taken seriously. Adding tattoos to the equation challenges those expectations even further. A female leader with visible tattoos disrupts stereotypes, showing that leadership isn’t about fitting into a box—it’s about capability, resilience, and vision.

A female leader with tattoos is a beacon of change, demonstrating that the path to success is not one-size-fits-all. Her tattoos symbolize empowerment, creativity, and the breaking down of barriers. She shows that leadership is about impact, not image.

As society continues to evolve, it’s leaders like these who remind us of the value of authenticity and inclusivity. They pave the way for a world where individuals are celebrated for their uniqueness—where inked skin and sharp minds can coexist at the highest levels of success.

In the end, it’s not the tattoos that define her leadership; it’s her vision, integrity, and the legacy she leaves behind. Her tattoos simply add another layer to the inspiring story of who she is.