Sylvia Lafair
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…
Read MoreSummary: 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…
Read MoreSummary: 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…
Read MoreSummary: 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…
Read MoreSummary: 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…
Read MoreSummary: 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…
Read MoreSummary: 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…
Read MoreSummary: Being a mother is one of the most profound experiences a woman can have. It’s a journey with highs and lows, laughter and tears. Ultimately, it can be incredibly rewarding. Let’s look at the joys and challenges faced. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I am a working mom and I usually cringe with all the “sappy”…
Read MoreSummary: The role of a mother holds a place of paramount importance. First, there is nurturing and guiding in the family. Then there are significant manifestations in the workplace. Here we unravel the myriad ways in which the essence of motherhood permeates professional spheres. Dear Dr Sylvia, In your Total Leadership Connections Program you talk…
Read MoreSummary: We all know that conflicts are inevitable. Whether they arise from differences in opinion, conflicting goals, or misunderstandings, these disputes can impede productivity and damage working relationships. However, by adopting a systems theory approach, organizations can navigate these challenges more effectively. This fosters collaboration and harmony among team members. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I am…
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