Leadership
Summary: Why do some leaders keep solving the same problems over and over while others seem able to transform an entire culture? The difference is often not intelligence, but pattern intelligence, or the ability to notice the invisible dynamics beneath visible behavior. It means recognizing recurring emotional, relational, and organizational patterns before they become crises.…
Summary: We often think freedom comes from changing jobs, relationships, or circumstances, but real freedom begins within. By recognizing the old patterns and stories that shape our reactions, we create space to choose a different response. That moment of self-awareness is where lasting change begins—and where we gain the freedom to lead, connect, and create…
Summary: Most breakthroughs don’t begin with a grand plan. They begin with one small moment of awareness, a GLIMMER. Discover how curiosity transformed one executive coach into a jewelry designer and how your next chapter may already be waiting for you. “Sometimes the smallest spark changes the direction of an entire life.” —Sylvia Lafair Most…
Summary: Every year around this time, we celebrate freedom. Flags wave. Families gather. Fireworks light up the night sky. And while we are meant to remember past freedom fighters, we often get caught up in our day-to-day activities. Let’s take a look at freedom from another vantage point. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I see Independence Day…
Summary: Every generation believes its leadership challenges are unique, but they’re not. Technology, politics, and markets may change over the years, yet human nature changes very little. Here’s what you need to know to lead in today’s chaotic world. As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day in the United States, I found myself going back,…
Summary: Politics divides people. Human experience connects us. No matter where we stand politically, one thing is impossible to ignore: each of the four living former Presidents of the United States has lived through profound personal shocks. Perhaps that should not surprise us. Here is how they transformed the pain of shock into wisdom. As…
Summary: Most leadership problems are not caused by a lack of strategy. They are caused by stress. Organizations spend millions teaching communication, conflict resolution, and decision-making skills. Yet when pressure rises, even smart leaders often react in ways that surprise themselves. Why? Because strategy is logical, and stress is biological. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I am…
SUMMARY: Dolly Parton reminds us that the most successful leaders refuse to let other people’s labels define their future. One of my favorite quotes from her is, “I’m not offended by all the dumb blond jokes, because I know I’m not dumb and I also know I’m not blonde.” She nailed it for all the…
Summary: Most leadership programs teach skills, like how to communicate better, manage conflict, and improve engagement. All are worthwhile goals, but after more than 35 years working with leaders and organizations, I’ve learned something important—skills alone do not transform culture. Read on to see what matters even more. Dear Dr. Sylvia, My team is efficient…
Summary: Have you noticed lately how difficult it is to have an honest conversation? Whether it’s politics, workplace policies, social issues, generational differences, or organizational change, many people are walking on eggshells. Some stay silent because they’re afraid of saying the wrong thing. Others speak louder and louder because they feel unheard. The result is…