Sylvia Lafair

A man and his son are smiling for the camera.

Fathers, Sons and The Power of Acknowledgement

By Sylvia Lafair | June 13, 2024 | Comments Off on Fathers, Sons and The Power of Acknowledgement

Summary: This is in honor of Father’s Day. It explores how men help boys grow to be the best they can be. It’s never too late to use the power of acknowledgment. Then, father-son relationships become a solid base for health and well-being. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I have heard you say many times that women…

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A woman sitting at a table with a man.

The Immutable Leader: Understanding the Impact on Organizational Dynamics

By Sylvia Lafair | June 11, 2024 | Comments Off on The Immutable Leader: Understanding the Impact on Organizational Dynamics

Summary: Some leaders firmly believe that individuals do not fundamentally change. This belief can profoundly impact an organization’s culture, employee morale, and productivity. Let’s explore the characteristics of such a leader and their potential effects on their organization. Dear Dr. Sylvia, The Founder and CEO of my company and I had a dispute last week.…

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Six Questions to Ask in Uncertain Times

By Sylvia Lafair | June 6, 2024 | Comments Off on Six Questions to Ask in Uncertain Times

Summary: Effective leadership development requires us to read the signs of the times and lead people to a better, more positive place. How do we move from pistols to peace-tools? Key questions are below. Dear Dr. Sylvia, We are living in a world of extremes. That shows up at my organization all the time. Those…

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Fatal Flaws Are Patterns That Keep Us Stuck in Childhood Muck

By Sylvia Lafair | June 4, 2024 | Comments Off on Fatal Flaws Are Patterns That Keep Us Stuck in Childhood Muck

Summary: Childhood is a critical period of development where individuals learn and internalize behaviors, beliefs, and coping mechanisms. These early experiences significantly shape our adult personalities. This includes the fatal flaws that may hinder our success and happiness. A fatal flaw is a character defect that leads to significant challenges or failures in life. Understanding…

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The Dichotomy of Power: How Emotionally Powerless Leaders Seek External Dominance

By Sylvia Lafair | May 30, 2024 | Comments Off on The Dichotomy of Power: How Emotionally Powerless Leaders Seek External Dominance

Summary: Leaders are often seen as paragons of strength and confidence. Yet beneath this façade, many grapple with feelings of powerlessness. This emotional turmoil can significantly impact their leadership style, prompting a compensatory quest for external power. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for fostering healthier leadership and organizational cultures. Dear Dr. Sylvia, One Senior Vice…

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A picture of galileo with the words " the truth will follow us."

Leadership Training: The Enduring Relevance of Galileo’s Struggle with Truth

By Sylvia Lafair | May 28, 2024 | Comments Off on Leadership Training: The Enduring Relevance of Galileo’s Struggle with Truth

Summary: The world premiere of “Galileo: A Rock Musical†recently opened at The Berkeley Repertory Theater. This unique production, like Bertolt Brecht’s play ‘Galileo,'(1939), is a profound and compelling dramatization of the life of the famous Italian astronomer and physicist Galileo Galilei. Both critically explore the conflicts between science and religious dogma, ethics, and societal…

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STRESS BUSTERS CERTIFICATE PROGRAM: How to Practice “Safe Stress” at Work

By Sylvia Lafair | May 22, 2024 | Comments Off on STRESS BUSTERS CERTIFICATE PROGRAM: How to Practice “Safe Stress” at Work

Summary: The world is supercharged with stress these days. Here we discuss how to “practice safe stress” at work and at home. Better yet, you can get a certification in stress management to help others do better too. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Several of my colleagues at work are now on extended leave because their stress…

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Leadership Training is Vital for All Companies

By Sylvia Lafair | May 20, 2024 | Comments Off on Leadership Training is Vital for All Companies

Summary: Effective leadership training enhances organizational performance. It also fosters innovation, and builds resilience in facing challenges; Here’s an exploration of why leadership training is essential. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I am the head of HR at a company that is growing at warp speed. However, many of those on the newly formed Executive Team and…

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When It’s Time to Hand in Your Resignation: Navigating a Toxic Workplace

By Sylvia Lafair | May 15, 2024 | Comments Off on When It’s Time to Hand in Your Resignation: Navigating a Toxic Workplace

Summary: Making the decision to resign from a job is rarely easy, but when your workplace becomes toxic, filled with blaming and judging, it might be the best step for your mental health and career growth. Here’s a guide to recognizing the signs, preparing for the transition, and ultimately handing in your resignation with grace…

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Leadership Education: Unveiling Systemic Thinking Through Unlikely Connections

By Sylvia Lafair | May 13, 2024 | Comments Off on Leadership Education: Unveiling Systemic Thinking Through Unlikely Connections

Summary: Navigating the interconnected web of systems requires more than just surface-level observation. It demands a holistic perspective that requires brave leadership. No more yes/no, good/bad. Let’s use The Ohio University Marching Band and a child eating cereal to unveil the essence of systemic thinking. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Thank you for suggesting we check out…

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