Sylvia Lafair

Leadership Tips: Beyond Problem-Solving to Design Thinking

By Sylvia Lafair | October 21, 2024 | Comments Off on Leadership Tips: Beyond Problem-Solving to Design Thinking

Summary: Move beyond problem solving. Use design thinking to stay action-oriented and create a better future for your company. Then, you are in the driver’s seat of the fastest car that will get you from here to where you want to go. Design thinking is the winner. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I would like some ideas…

Read More

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

By Sylvia Lafair | October 17, 2024 | Comments Off on Why Stress Costs Organizations Billions of Dollars AND What To Do About It

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…

Read More

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

By Sylvia Lafair | October 13, 2024 | Comments Off on What You Can’t See Could Hurt You: The Importance of Learning About Invisible Stress

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…

Read More

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

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…

Read More

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

By Sylvia Lafair | October 6, 2024 | Comments Off on From Glimmers to Greatness: How Head, Heart, and Gut Connect for YOU to Win

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…

Read More

Emotional Power: When Leaders Dare to Care

By Sylvia Lafair | October 1, 2024 | Comments Off on Emotional Power: When Leaders Dare to Care

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…

Read More

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

By Sylvia Lafair | September 29, 2024 | Comments Off on Leadership Development and Whose Fault Is It Anyway? Are YOU a YABBUT or NOT?

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…

Read More

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

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…

Read More

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

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…

Read More

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

By Sylvia Lafair | September 16, 2024 | Comments Off on What to Look for in Executives as Role Models So Work Cultures Can Thrive

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…

Read More