Communication

Valentine’s Day Reflection: Hearing the Words Within your “Heart”

By Sylvia Lafair | February 13, 2025 |

Dear All, Have a sweet and caring Valentine’s Day with your loved ones. Along with flowers and chocolates, here are some thoughts to consider. Valentine’s Day is a time for love, connection, and deep listening—not just with our ears but with our hearts. Ultimately, it’s a day when words carry more meaning. Think about when…

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Girl in class learning her legacy from business leaders

Legacy Leadership : What Business Leaders Can Teach Their Grandchildren

By Sylvia Lafair | January 30, 2025 | Comments Off on Legacy Leadership : What Business Leaders Can Teach Their Grandchildren

Summary: As a leader, you’ve spent a lifetime navigating challenges, making tough decisions, and shaping organizations. But beyond business success, your true legacy lies in the lessons you leave behind. While profits and accolades may fade, the wisdom you pass down to your grandchildren will endure for generations. Dear Dr. Sylvia (aka Grandmom), I have…

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People sticking together in safe zones

How Fires, Floods, and Wars Impact “Safe Zones”

By Sylvia Lafair | January 16, 2025 | Comments Off on How Fires, Floods, and Wars Impact “Safe Zones”

The Illusions of Safety: How Fires, Floods, and Wars Impact the Daily Lives of Those in “Safe Zones” Summary: No one is truly untouched in a world increasingly defined by its challenges—climate change, wildfires, droughts, and conflicts. While some regions experience these crises firsthand, others may seem to exist in “safe zones.” Yet, the ripple…

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Girl holding Christmas trees in front of her eyes to celebrate the holidays

The Importance of Presence Over Presents

By Sylvia Lafair | December 24, 2024 | Comments Off on The Importance of Presence Over Presents

Summary: 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…

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A crown representing how overachievers can be one-uppers

From One-Upper to Creative Collaborator

By Sylvia Lafair | December 12, 2024 | Comments Off on From One-Upper to Creative Collaborator

Transforming 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…

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An open book with lights in the middle of the pages to indicate powerful storytelling

The Essence of Powerful Storytelling

By Sylvia Lafair | December 10, 2024 | Comments Off on The Essence of Powerful Storytelling

How 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…

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A torn piece of paper with the words honesty is the best policy written on it.

Sustaining a Positive Workplace Culture Through Truthfulness

By Sylvia Lafair | July 11, 2024 | Comments Off on Sustaining a Positive Workplace Culture Through Truthfulness

Summary: One of the foundational elements of a thriving workplace is truthfulness. Honesty not only fosters trust and respect but also promotes transparency and accountability, essential components of a healthy work environment. Here’s how telling the truth can help sustain a positive culture at work. Dear Dr. Sylvia, My team and I tell the truth…

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A pile of question marks on top of each other.

The Curious Leader: Unveiling the Path to Success

By Sylvia Lafair | March 13, 2024 | Comments Off on The Curious Leader: Unveiling the Path to Success

Summary: Two words open a world of exploration for all leaders and emerging leaders. Imagine only two words for more new ideas, products, and services. Join me as we open new paths to next-level success. Dear Dr. Sylvia, My team is talking about innovation, yet no new ideas are surfacing. They are stuck in old…

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A group of people standing around each other.

Combating Workplace Challenges: Silence is the Enemy

By Sylvia Lafair | February 12, 2024 | Comments Off on Combating Workplace Challenges: Silence is the Enemy

Summary: Let’s explore why silence is the enemy at work. Did you ever wonder why so many competent individuals ignore that silent elephant in the room rather than speak out to be heard? Here’s the route to heightened workplace satisfaction. Dear Dr. Sylvia, As the head of a very creative and competent team, I thought…

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A hand holding up a megaphone with red and yellow background

Leadership Lessons: Navigating the Fine Line Between “Free Speech” and “Responsible Free Speech”

By Sylvia Lafair | December 14, 2023 | Comments Off on Leadership Lessons: Navigating the Fine Line Between “Free Speech” and “Responsible Free Speech”

Summary: Free speech has taken on new dimensions in the past decade. While the freedom to express oneself is a cornerstone of democratic societies, it’s crucial to understand the distinction between “free speech” and “responsible free speech.†Let’s explore the nuances of terms for individuals and organizations aiming to strike a balance. Dear Dr. Sylvia,…

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