Conflict Resolutions

People sticking together in safe zones

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

By Sylvia Lafair | January 16, 2025 |

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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A group of people sitting around a table.

Navigating Workplace Conflict: Turning Challenges into Opportunities

By Sylvia Lafair | June 20, 2024 | Comments Off on Navigating Workplace Conflict: Turning Challenges into Opportunities

Summary: What keeps most leaders up at night is when conflict continuously flares up. Personalities clash, stress levels rise, and external pressures infiltrate the workplace. If you find yourself dealing with the same conflicts repeatedly, your leadership style might be contributing to the problem. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I am exhausted. The conflict at work doesnt…

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A group of wooden people arranged in a circle.

Leveraging Systems Theory to Resolve Workplace Conflicts

By Sylvia Lafair | May 2, 2024 | Comments Off on Leveraging Systems Theory to Resolve Workplace Conflicts

Summary: We all know that conflicts are inevitable. Whether they arise from differences in opinion, conflicting goals, or misunderstandings, these disputes can impede productivity and damage working relationships. However, by adopting a systems theory approach, organizations can navigate these challenges more effectively. This fosters collaboration and harmony among team members. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I am…

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A group of people standing next to each other.

Navigating Workplace Dilemmas: Unraveling the “He Said/She Said/They Said” Conundrum

By Sylvia Lafair | March 4, 2024 | Comments Off on Navigating Workplace Dilemmas: Unraveling the “He Said/She Said/They Said” Conundrum

Summary: Let’s explore the complexities of the “He Said/She Said/They Said” mismatched stories at work. I want to shed light on potential consequences and offer strategies to address and prevent such scenarios. Dear Dr. Sylvia, We had three excellent employees resign in the past month. They all had the same frustration. There was a promise…

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Two men shaking hands in front of a shadow.

Turn Adversaries into Allies: How Your Enemies Can Become Your Greatest Teachers

By Sylvia Lafair | November 28, 2023 | Comments Off on Turn Adversaries into Allies: How Your Enemies Can Become Your Greatest Teachers

Summary: We often encounter adversaries who challenge us, push our boundaries, and sometimes make our paths seem arduous. However, what if we could shift our perspective and view these adversaries not as obstacles but valuable teachers? Here, we explore the profound idea that your enemies can be your most incredible instructors, guiding you toward personal…

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A person with their hands up in the air.

The Psychology of Hope

By Sylvia Lafair | November 7, 2023 | Comments Off on The Psychology of Hope

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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Two men sitting on a bench in front of bars.

Game Theory and Conflict: Unraveling the Prisoner’s Dilemma

By Sylvia Lafair | October 25, 2023 | Comments Off on Game Theory and Conflict: Unraveling the Prisoner’s Dilemma

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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Finger people with faces drawn on them

Vengeance Is Not a Strategy; Here’s What Makes a Difference

By Sylvia Lafair | October 23, 2023 | Comments Off on Vengeance Is Not a Strategy; Here’s What Makes a Difference

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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