Sylvia Lafair

Women sitting at a desk stressed with work

Why Stress Costs Organizations Billions of Dollars AND What To Do About It

By Sylvia Lafair | October 17, 2024 |

Summary: Let’s discuss the benefits of a stress management program for you and your staff. You need the best tools to control frustration, anger, and general upset as a leader. It’s not enough to say, “Stress is over the top,” and let it go. Dig under the obvious to find and release the invisible stress…

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What You Can’t See Could Hurt You: The Importance of Learning About Invisible Stress

By Sylvia Lafair | October 13, 2024 |

Summary: Workplace stress has become a widespread issue. But what about the stress that goes unnoticed? The stress that lingers beneath the surface can impact your health, productivity, and even your relationships at work. This “invisible stress” is a silent force that can wreak havoc on an organization if left unchecked. Understanding and managing it…

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How JUBLA (Judgment, Blame, or Attack) Will Make You Angrier and Keep You Feeling Like a Victim, And What to Do About It

By Sylvia Lafair | October 9, 2024 |

Summary: When things don’t go as planned, it’s all too easy to slip into patterns of judgment, blame, or attack (JUBLA). These behaviors, however, are toxic. Not only do they escalate conflict, but they also keep you locked in a cycle of anger, frustration, and victimhood. Learn to move from victim to explorer using pattern…

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A person sitting in the lotus position with their hands held up.

From Glimmers to Greatness: How Head, Heart, and Gut Connect for YOU to Win

By Sylvia Lafair | October 6, 2024 |

Summary: Every great achievement, breakthrough idea, and profound moment of success begins with a glimmer—a fleeting sense of possibility, a spark of intuition, or a flash of inspiration. These glimmers, often subtle and easily dismissed, are the seeds of greatness. Yet, the key to turning these sparks into lasting success lies not only in intellect…

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A group of people holding light bulbs in their hands.

Emotional Power: When Leaders Dare to Care

By Sylvia Lafair | October 1, 2024 |

Summary: As many seasoned leaders begin to step down from their roles, their wealth of knowledge and expertise offers valuable lessons for future leaders. Here, we consider both outdated, ingrained patterns and ones to retain. Dear Dr. Sylvia, The CEO of my very successful organization has announced his retirement. It will be before the end…

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A person is holding out their hand over the word " fault ".

Leadership Development and Whose Fault Is It Anyway? Are YOU a YABBUT or NOT?

By Sylvia Lafair | September 29, 2024 |

Summary: There are many books about how to survive a toxic workplace. The big question is: Who makes the work setting toxic? Most of the books point the finger of blame at the boss or supervisor. Many books and sites about office politics are about what he, she, or they did that was insulting and…

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A Collaborative Journey to Success: How Direct Reports Can Talk Truth to Power and Help Their Boss Be More Effective

By Sylvia Lafair | September 24, 2024 |

Summary: In the workplace, a hierarchical dynamic often characterizes the relationship between direct reports and their leaders. These power differences can create challenges regarding open and honest communication. But speaking truth to power is essential for a transparent and collaborative work environment. This can significantly enhance a leader’s effectiveness. Direct reports hold valuable insights about…

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Managing Excessive Stress in Today’s World: Practice Safe Stress. Read “Invisible Stress: It’s NOT What You Think!”

By Sylvia Lafair | September 18, 2024 |

Summary: Stress has always been a part of everyday life. However, in today’s harried world, it’s on steroids! Work pressures, personal responsibilities, and constant connectivity make escaping it impossible. Yet, the real issue isn’t just stress itself—how we respond to it. Excessive stress can lead to burnout, mental health struggles, and physical problems if left…

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A group of people standing together in front of each other.

What to Look for in Executives as Role Models So Work Cultures Can Thrive

By Sylvia Lafair | September 16, 2024 |

Summary: What separates an ordinary executive from one who serves as an exceptional role model? Whether you’re a business leader, an emerging professional, or part of a hiring committee, selecting a suitable executive role model is crucial for fostering a positive organizational culture. Here’s what matters. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I had an odd experience with…

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A wooden table with blocks that spell out just say no.

The Power of “No”: Why We Fear It and How to Reclaim Its Strength

By Sylvia Lafair | September 11, 2024 |

Summary: Most of us consider being a “yes ” person a positive in the work world. Sadly, “yes” often overshadows the importance of that simple, two-letter word: “no.” Yet, “no” is a word that can protect our time, energy, and well-being. So why are we so afraid of it? When you understand the power of…

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