Conflict Resolutions

Two faces going from bitter to better

From Bitter to Better: How to Transform Workplace Drama into Growth

By Sylvia Lafair | March 3, 2025 | Comments Off on From Bitter to Better: How to Transform Workplace Drama into Growth

Summary: This is a tale of workplace conflict and redemption that shows you ways to make real change happen. Enjoy it and use it in your own work life. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I am so tired of fighting with my colleagues at work. My pattern is “the clown.” I make funny jokes (at least, I…

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Breaking the cycle of emotional patterns

Breaking the Cycle: How Patterns Shape Workplace Tension

By Sylvia Lafair | February 26, 2025 | Comments Off on Breaking the Cycle: How Patterns Shape Workplace Tension

Lisa’s response to Greg wasn’t just a moment of emotional intelligence—it was a shift in a long-standing workplace pattern. If she had reacted with defensiveness, their conflict would have deepened, reinforcing a cycle of hostility. Instead, by stepping back and choosing curiosity over combat, she disrupted the dynamic. This is what pattern awareness is all…

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A man above.a cheering crowd of acccountability

Accountability vs. Empty Cheerleading

By Sylvia Lafair | February 6, 2025 | Comments Off on Accountability vs. Empty Cheerleading

Why Words Without Action Fall Flat Summary: Social media is flooded with motivational quotes, teammates cheer each other on, and friends offer endless support. But when it comes to real progress, there’s a stark difference between being a cheerleader and having a sense of accountability. Dear Dr. Sylvia, My CEO recently hired a new Chief…

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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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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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