Business
How to Break Free from Secondhand Stress: What It Is and Where It Comes From
Dear 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 MoreHire Slow and Fire Fast: The Key to Long-Term Success
Summary: “Hire Slow, Fire Fast.” is a strategy that may seem counterintuitive in today’s rapid, results-driven environment. Yet, it’s an approach that many successful companies swear by for sustained growth and long-term success. Let’s look at how it can lead to better team dynamics, stronger performance, and a healthier work culture. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I…
Read MoreHow 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 MoreEmotional 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 Here, we consider both outdated, ingrained patterns and ones to retain.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 MoreA 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 MoreWhat 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 MoreManaging Emotional Triggers at Work: How “The Clown” Can Block Team Collaboration and Cause Frustration
Summary: Workplace dynamics can be challenging, especially when emotional triggers go unchecked. One of the most common—and often misunderstood—roles that surfaces under pressure is “The Clown.” This individual, while seeking to bring levity, often derails important conversations with ill-timed jokes that frustrate and disengage the team. Here we explore how “The Clown,” as discussed in…
Read MoreWhat To Do When Conflict Effects Culture Emotionally As Well As Fiscally
Summary: Pay attention to those glimmers, good or bad, that you can feel in your gut. They are there to direct you to make changes so you don’t get stuck in overwhelm and burnout. These glimmers are like an internal GPS helping you navigate a positive life path. These glimmers are game changers. Find a…
Read MoreWhy People Resign: Pay Attention To Those Glimmers of Discontent
Summary: Resignations are becoming more common as employees seek environments that align with their values, aspirations, and well-being. Understanding why people resign is crucial for employees and employers, as it can lead to more fulfilling careers and healthier workplaces. Here are the reasons behind resignations and energizing solutions to create better work environments. Dear Dr…
Read MoreThe Power of Intuition: Listen to GLIMMERS from Your Gut in Hiring and Job Acceptance
Summary: Making the right hiring decisions and accepting the right job offers can make or break a career. Data, qualifications, and experience play crucial roles in these decisions, yet there is intuition, another often overlooked aspect. That gut feeling, those subtle glimmers of insight, can be invaluable. Let’s explore why listening to your intuition is…
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