Sylvia Lafair
Summary: Did you know that Thanksgiving Day is a high-stress time for most people? Think of it this way. Family dynamics can be as diverse as the food on the table. Navigating family interactions during this holiday requires a delicate balance of understanding, communication, and patience. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I need help with the right…
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Summary: Human Resources can leverage systems thinking to reduce lawsuits by adopting a holistic and proactive approach to address organizational issues. Systems thinking involves understanding the interconnectedness of various components within a system and how they contribute to the overall outcomes. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Everyone is running to HR to complain. It is, however, the…
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Summary: In the ever-evolving business landscape, organizations constantly seek ways to optimize operations, adapt to change, and achieve sustainable success. One critical paradigm that has gained prominence recently is “systems thinking.” This holistic approach to problem-solving and decision-making can transform how human beings are successful. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I see you are now all about…
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Summary: In a world rife with conflict and discord, the quest for peace and hope can seem impossible. Yet, history has shown that profound transformation is possible, and it often begins with the power of collective action and systems thinking. We explore this here. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Shocked and saddened last week. My 19-year-old daughter…
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Summary: In a world fraught with division and conflict, the power of systems thinking can be a beacon of hope for transforming negative mindsets and forging connections. Here, I will explore the concept of systems thinking and its application in problem-solving. I am adding a compelling story that showcases how it can alter our perceptions…
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Summary: Generational issues have been an enduring facet of human society, seemingly immortal in their persistence. Time and again, we see rifts between generations, each believing their perspective is superior, their values paramount. To explore why these issues don’t go away, we’ll delve into the depths of human nature, psychological underpinnings, and cultural shifts. Dear…
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Summary: Game theory is a field in mathematics and economics. It has proven to be a valuable tool for understanding complex conflicts and strategic interactions. We apply “The Prisoner’s Dilemma” to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It sheds light on the challenges and potential solutions in this ongoing struggle for peace. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I know the…
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Summary: In the annals of history, countless tales of vengeance and retribution have captured our imagination. From ancient feuds to epic battles and cinematic showdowns, the desire for payback has always been a compelling human narrative. Here is what makes the real difference. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I was thinking about you today. I was thinking…
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Summary: At the heart of “Systems Thinking” lies the art of pattern recognition. Let’s explore its secrets through two captivating stories of individuals who harnessed the power of pattern recognition to achieve remarkable success. Dear Dr. Sylvia, “I agree!” “To what?” you ask. “To the fact that patterns will repeat and repeat unless you take…
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Dear All, Today, I, once again, enter the darkness of what is happening in Israel and Palestine. In addition, it brings back memories of a time that seems a million years ago (actually twenty-one). That was when a group of my colleagues and I created The Center for Intercultural Dialogue. We were doing deep work…
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