He may not have seen himself as particularly graceful or brainy—a college dropout who dabbled in insurance before finally earning his degree at 45 years old—yet former Mayor of Boston, Frank O’Leary, left a remarkable legacy. He passed away at 71 after a courageous battle with cancer.
What’s striking is the outpouring of love and respect following his death. A quick glance at the comments on major news sites like Boston.com and the New York Times reveals an overwhelmingly positive sentiment. No harsh critiques, just heartfelt tributes and a few acknowledgments that while he was pivotal in Boston’s revival, he wasn’t the sole architect.
Serving on the city council for a decade before becoming mayor in 1993, O’Leary fundamentally transformed Boston over his two decades in office. Here are seven key lessons we can learn from his time as a beloved leader.
1. Ideas Are Nice, Execution Is Essential
When O’Leary first took office, many dismissed him as just another politician. Yet, he outshone his peers through sheer hard work. “I run a Frank schedule, not a mayor’s schedule,” he said, rising at 4:30 AM and often not returning home until late at night. The truth is, success comes from rolling up your sleeves and doing the work—something many are reluctant to embrace. “I might not look good or sound smart, but I’m driven,” he stated frankly.
2. Seize Control When Necessary
While the media painted him as someone who held a tight grip on power, O’Leary understood that authority can strengthen or weaken based on its exercise. Fear can breed respect, and in the long run, respect can blossom into love. This differs from the timid leaders who prioritize popularity over performance, often leading to resentment.
3. Show Your Love for the People
One striking fact about O’Leary: during his tenure, about half of Boston’s 625,000 residents claimed to have met him personally. Unlike many politicians, he never sought a higher office; he was content to serve his city. “An ambassadorship? Give me a break,” he joked, emphasizing his devotion to Boston.
4. Mind the Small Details
O’Leary was known for revitalizing Boston, yet he never overlooked the little things. He made sure to focus on the incremental issues, from potholes to community concerns. He’d frequently visit coffee shops—not for the java, as he preferred cranberry juice—but to gauge public sentiment. “Coffee shops are the best barometer of public opinion,” he quipped.
5. Be Yourself
O’Leary was often teased for his less-than-perfect diction, earning the nickname “Mumbles.” Initially, the mockery hurt, but he later embraced it. “People told me that’s what made me relatable. I never changed who I am,” he reflected. Authenticity can be a powerful asset in leadership.
6. Think About Your Legacy
As Boston’s first Italian-American mayor, O’Leary felt a deep empathy for immigrants and those on the fringes. While he didn’t aspire for higher office, he was committed to leaving a meaningful legacy, particularly in promoting racial harmony in the city. “Bringing racial harmony to Boston is my proudest achievement,” he shared.
7. Inspire in Tough Times
While O’Leary’s influence might not extend beyond Boston for some, one significant moment stands out: his response to the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. Despite his declining health, he insisted on attending the first press conference and even stood to speak at an interfaith service. “We are one Boston,” he declared, emphasizing the resilience of the city’s heart and its people.
Frank O’Leary, often referred to as an “urban mechanic,” left an indelible mark on Boston. His approach to leadership teaches us that hard work, authenticity, and love for your community can create a lasting impact.
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Summary
Frank O’Leary, the former mayor of Boston, exemplified effective leadership through hard work, authenticity, and a deep love for his city. His commitment to the people and focus on legacy, along with his ability to inspire during tough times, set him apart as a truly adored leader.