Leadership Styles

A man with gold he's manipulated out of people as a sociopath in business

How to Spot Manipulative Individuals

By Sylvia Lafair | February 20, 2025 |

Before They Take You for a Ride with Your Work and Your Money Summary: Have you ever met someone who seemed too good to be true, only to later realize they had manipulated, deceived, or even financially exploited you? If so, you encountered a “toxic friend.” In the workplace, these manipulative folks can be incredibly…

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Transforming lights headed for a target

Transforming Triggers into Pathways for Work and Personal Growth

By Sylvia Lafair | February 18, 2025 |

Summary: Do you ever sidestep discomfort, avoiding situations that unsettle you? Yet, these moments—your emotional triggers—are key to profound self-discovery and growth. By confronting and understanding your triggers, you can transform them from sources of distress into valuable teachers. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Yesterday, at my semi-annual review with my boss, he told me, and I…

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A pattern of people lined up

How Patterns of Behavior Differ from Habits: What You Need to Know

By Sylvia Lafair | January 28, 2025 | Comments Off on How Patterns of Behavior Differ from Habits: What You Need to Know

Summary: Understanding the distinction between behavior patterns and habits is essential when examining personal growth and professional success. Although we often use these terms interchangeably, they represent two distinct concepts that impact how we navigate relationships, make decisions, and respond to challenges. Let’s delve into how patterns of behavior and habits differ and why recognizing…

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A cat looking at its own reflection in the mirror.

From Tyrant or Timid to Visionary Leader: Transforming Extremes into Empowered Leadership

By Sylvia Lafair | October 23, 2024 | Comments Off on From Tyrant or Timid to Visionary Leader: Transforming Extremes into Empowered Leadership

Summary: In every workplace, leaders influence their teams’ and organizations’ direction, culture, and overall success. Those in the extremes are the hardest to change. They are either persecutor/ tyrants or pleaser/milk toasts. On one end of the spectrum, the persecutor or tyrant leads through intimidation and fear, while on the other, the milk-toast or pleaser…

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A woman sitting at a table with a man.

The Immutable Leader: Understanding the Impact on Organizational Dynamics

By Sylvia Lafair | June 11, 2024 | Comments Off on The Immutable Leader: Understanding the Impact on Organizational Dynamics

Summary: Some leaders firmly believe that individuals do not fundamentally change. This belief can profoundly impact an organization’s culture, employee morale, and productivity. Let’s explore the characteristics of such a leader and their potential effects on their organization. Dear Dr. Sylvia, The Founder and CEO of my company and I had a dispute last week.…

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Someone stepping on eggshells

What is “Eggshell Leadership?” And What To Do About It

By Sylvia Lafair | August 30, 2023 | Comments Off on What is “Eggshell Leadership?” And What To Do About It

Summary: When you have a leader with unpredictable moods, many employees feel their organization is like a roller coaster without a stop button. Here are some methods to reduce tension and exhaustion and create psychological safety. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Whenever I meet with my boss, I get a queasy feeling in my stomach. My work…

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Image of boy and girl talking

Leadership Lessons: What Matters When You Tell The Truth

By Sylvia Lafair | January 19, 2023 | Comments Off on Leadership Lessons: What Matters When You Tell The Truth

Summary: In this era of social media excess, where everyone can offer their version of what is truth without fact-checking, it’s time for critical thinking to stop the dysfunction of speaking without considering the consequences of our words. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I have a question for you. Question: How many business coaches does it take…

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Colorful firework with bokeh background.

How to Leap into the New Year and Let Your Dreams Take Flight

By Sylvia Lafair | December 27, 2022 | Comments Off on How to Leap into the New Year and Let Your Dreams Take Flight

Summary: This is a great time to think about how you want to advance your career and your relationships. Go ahead, take a leap of faith. Here’s what to do.  Dear ….  Did you know that at least 50% of adults make new year’s resolutions?  Mostly they are about more exercise, less weight, healthier eating,…

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Image of street with lights

Here Are Two Short Questions to Ask Yourself During the Holidays

By Sylvia Lafair | December 20, 2022 | Comments Off on Here Are Two Short Questions to Ask Yourself During the Holidays

Summary: Life is like a sandwich. Endings and beginnings are like the top and bottom pieces of bread; the rest is considered the sandwich filling.  Dear ….  The holidays are known as a time of fun, festivities, and fascinating happenings.   It is also a time to reflect and plan for the new year.  With all…

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Image of cartoon image of laptop

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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