Sylvia Lafair
Summary: Leadership is often painted as a game of strategy, data, and grit. But ask the best leaders what guided them at critical crossroads, and the answer is rarely found in a spreadsheet. They’ll say, “I just knew,” or “something told me,” or “it clicked in my gut.” Here is why GLIMMERS are so crucial…
Summary: Leadership today isn’t just about titles, strategies, or skills. It’s about you, and you, and me. It’s about how we each bring our voices forward, no matter our role. Today is about the courage to speak out, ask questions, and yes, to listen. We are at an inflection point, where we can either make…
Summary: How do you answer when someone starts a conversation with, “How are you?” Many of us give the typical knee-jerk response, “Fine, thanks.” When you enter into a debate, is it with boxing gloves on, ready to win rather than lose? Neither way works in the long term. Here’s what makes a difference. Dear…
Summary: It’s easy to confuse talking with connecting. But not all talking is created equal. There are three very different forms of verbal exchange: conversation, debate, and dialogue. The one that can change the future at work, at home, and in the community is the one we practice the least. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I asked…
Summary: Let’s face it, these days it feels like the world is divided on… well, everything: politics, workplace policies, parenting styles, etc. Polarization has become the default setting, and when being “right” matters more than being in a relationship, the cost is steep. The question is, what do we do when polarization becomes the norm?…
Summary: The phrase, “That’s just the way they are,” has excused bad behavior for far too long. We often complain about parents or bosses who dominate every conversation, hijack good ideas, and somehow always seem to find the spotlight. But here’s the million-dollar leadership question: do we have to live with egotistical relationships, or can…
Summary: Leaders are increasingly focused on productivity hacks, hybrid work schedules, and the latest tech platforms. Yet underneath the noise, something essential has slipped through the cracks. Hint: No AI can fix what is missing. Dear Dr. Sylvia, There was an awkward moment at work recently. Before we settled down for our ELT, one of…
Summary: We’ve all been told at some point, “Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good.” Fair advice when you’re agonizing over the right shade of blue for a website. Dangerous advice when “good enough” becomes the default for leadership excellence, team productivity, and innovation at work. Let’s look beyond “good enough” for productivity and…
Summary: Forget the official “goodbye” emails and polite handshakes. The fear of gossip often haunts people when they resign. There is a whispered, “Can you believe she left? She’ll regret it.” Or the raised eyebrows that silently say, ”I bet he was actually fired and they are just covering it up.” Here are some thoughts…
Summary: Leaders who can hold the “both/and” philosophy in our polarizing world are needed more than ever. CEO’s VP’s. therapists, educators, trainers, coaches, directors, and media do best when they lead others to better ways of interacting rather than telling them what is right or wrong. Here are some thoughts to consider. Dear Dr. Sylvia,…