Conflict Resolutions

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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Why Psychological Safety Is Cost-Effective at Work

By Sylvia Lafair | June 14, 2023 | Comments Off on Why Psychological Safety Is Cost-Effective at Work

Summary: Most twenty-first-century workplaces are rife with negativity, tension, and conflict, with enormous costs ranging from decreased productivity to lawsuits. Here are some ideas on developing psychological safety and making positive cultural changes. Dear Dr. Sylvia, The complaining at work about too little time and too much to do is getting old. I have team…

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A road sign for stopping gun violence

The Cost of Gun Violence: Educators and Health Professionals Must Examine the Devastating Impact on Those Who Survive

By Sylvia Lafair | March 27, 2023 | Comments Off on The Cost of Gun Violence: Educators and Health Professionals Must Examine the Devastating Impact on Those Who Survive

Summary: Gun violence in America has become a vicious cycle perpetuating from generation to generation. It’s time to go “upriver” to solve this crisis. Educators and health professionals are the first lines of defense. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Yet again! Another shooting at a school. More dead, children and adults. What are we missing? The issue…

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A Lego boxing match

Here’s What It Takes To Become Conflict Competent

By Sylvia Lafair | March 1, 2023 | Comments Off on Here’s What It Takes To Become Conflict Competent

Summary: How much time do you spend angry and upset with your colleagues, friends, or family? It’s time to learn the skills of being conflict competent. That means you have the right communication system to speak and be heard. More than that, you lead others to solutions that benefit all. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Everyone seems…

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How to Banish the GOTCHA GAME at Work

By Sylvia Lafair | February 22, 2023 | Comments Off on How to Banish the GOTCHA GAME at Work

Summary: Love it or hate it; it won’t go away. Not those extra 10 pounds! I’m talking about conflict. Those annoying times when you are at odds with someone when you are pissed off with a client, supplier, staff, or even your best friend. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Is it me? Or is the world becoming…

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Cartoon image of people talking to each other.

Here’s How Educators Can Stop Excessive Conflict in Schools

By Sylvia Lafair | February 20, 2023 | Comments Off on Here’s How Educators Can Stop Excessive Conflict in Schools

Summary: In every work setting, especially in schools, there is a time when individuals throw up their hands and ask, “Why can’t we all just get along!” Here are tools and techniques that answer this question and create a more efficient, collaborative culture for educators. Dear Dr. Sylvia. Why does conflict run rampant in today’s…

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The Future of Work Means Choosing Dialogue Over Debate. Here’s What To Consider.

By Sylvia Lafair | December 14, 2022 | Comments Off on The Future of Work Means Choosing Dialogue Over Debate. Here’s What To Consider.

Summary: We are in new territory in the world of work. It’s time to take advantage of the opportunities gained by collaborating rather than condemning.  Dear Dr. Sylvia,  I am having a retreat with my senior staff to discuss the future of work.  I know you believe in leadership programs for everyone.  I’m not sure…

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An illustration of a man resolving a conflict

Ouch: Taking the Sting from Conflict at Work

By Sylvia Lafair | October 20, 2022 | Comments Off on Ouch: Taking the Sting from Conflict at Work

Summary: Workplace conflict is a BIG problem that won’t go away. Most executives and entrepreneurs I coach first worry about $$$$ issues and then quickly think about their employees. Here are thoughts about what may keep you up at night and what to do differently. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I find that whether my company finally…

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An illustration and artwork of people fighting in an office

Is It Possible to Transform Workplace Conflict, Or Should You Learn to Live With It?

By Sylvia Lafair | October 12, 2022 | Comments Off on Is It Possible to Transform Workplace Conflict, Or Should You Learn to Live With It?

Summary: Leadership programs for everyone have conflict resolution at the top of the list. Here are ways to consider the tensions at work and what leads to creative collaboration. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Firstly, I want you to know I am the senior VP of HR, and I need all the advice I can get to…

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Tom Brady, Microsoft Tablets, and Work/Home Relationships 

By Sylvia Lafair | September 27, 2022 | Comments Off on Tom Brady, Microsoft Tablets, and Work/Home Relationships 

Summary: Few things seem more different than the worlds of work and home. However, it is a myth that we can separate them. Stress in one area often tumbles into the other. Here are some tips for creating a better balance.  Dear Dr. Sylvia,  Yesterday I did what I now call “A Tom Brady move.† …

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