Sylvia Lafair
Summary: Ready to kick off the new year by becoming the leader you were always meant to be? One who doesn’t just manage the team—but inspires, empowers, and creates a culture that thrives? It’s time to step into your new role as a PAL—a Pattern Aware Leader! This isn’t just about leading with authority; it’s…
Read MoreSummary: Ah, the New Year. The time when we all gather ‘round and try to figure out how we will turn into superheroes overnight. You know, with those resolutions that promise to transform us into versions of ourselves that could probably bench-press a car and perform ballet in our sleep. But here’s a thought: what…
Read MoreSummary: The holiday season is often wrapped in shimmering lights, cheerful music, and the promise of togetherness. Yet, for many, it brings a complex mix of emotions: nostalgia, joy, longing, and stress. This is a time to pause, reflect, and connect with the holiday season in our increasingly complicated world. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I keep…
Read MoreSummary: It’s easy to equate showing love and appreciation with giving physical gifts. Presents can be thoughtful and meaningful. However, something far more valuable cannot be wrapped or tied with a bow: your presence. Here are some things to think about. Dear Dr. Sylvia, When all the “oooh’s and ahhha’s” after unwrapping the special gifts…
Read MoreDear Dr. Sylvia, I know this sounds delusional. However, I want to change my career. I want to make the shift now. Let me explain. I am a lawyer and work in a prestigeous law firm. Hiwever, the dream to be a lawyer was my father’s desire for me. I was such a “good child”…
Read MoreDear Dr. Sylvia, Everyone has secondhand stress these days. It’s not that different than getting sick from someone smoking near you. I can be happy and positive, and then someone will enter the meeting with a frown and a bag full of negatives, and suddenly, my smile leaves, and I can feel that annoying knot…
Read MoreTransforming the Workplace Super Achiever Dear Dr. Sylvia, I work with the most annoying super achiever. That is to say, she always has a better response, a more thoughtful comment, and a “great” way to handle conflict (even though she creates much of the chaos at work). In addition, my team and I need help…
Read MoreHow to Get Your Point Across at Work Storytelling is one of the most effective ways to communicate ideas, influence perspectives, and inspire action. However, it can also offend or alienate your audience when not handled with care. The secret to powerful storytelling lies in the balance between conveying your message and maintaining sensitivity. Dear…
Read MoreAvoid falling into the same rabbit holes of doubt Dear Dr. Sylvia, Why, oh why is it so hard to change destructive patterns? From my time in the Total Leadership Connections program, I know that I can fall into the same rabbit hole again and again. For me, It’s the Persecutor/Bully Role. When I am…
Read MoreI want to explore what giving means when you have nothing left. Let’s celebrate and honor those who pour water from an empty pitcher. I include actionable tips and insights for individuals and teams, from recognizing personal boundaries to creating a culture of support and celebration. The Metaphor of Pouring from an Empty Pitcher The…
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