Leadership

A woman sitting at the table with her head down.

Pouring from an Empty Pitcher : Finding Strength under Stress

By Sylvia Lafair | December 3, 2024 | Comments Off on Pouring from an Empty Pitcher : Finding Strength under Stress

I want to explore what giving means when you have nothing left. Let’s celebrate and honor those who pour water from an empty pitcher. I include actionable tips and insights for individuals and teams, from recognizing personal boundaries to creating a culture of support and celebration. The Metaphor of Pouring from an Empty Pitcher The…

Read More
A man and boy shaking hands in front of a couch.

Why Business Leaders Struggle to See How Family Patterns Show Up at Work — And Why It Matters

By Sylvia Lafair | November 18, 2024 | Comments Off on Why Business Leaders Struggle to See How Family Patterns Show Up at Work — And Why It Matters

Summary: As a business leader, you juggle a multitude of responsibilities—strategizing for growth, inspiring teams, managing resources, and navigating conflict. Yet, a hidden element influences how you handle these challenges: patterns from your family of origin. These ingrained patterns shape your reactions to conflict, guide your communication style, and influence your decision-making processes. Despite their…

Read More
A man in a suit is sitting at the table

Leadership Tips: How to Get Others To Listen to You

By Sylvia Lafair | November 14, 2024 | Comments Off on Leadership Tips: How to Get Others To Listen to You

Summary: Telling and expecting is as old as the planet. However, what used to work was that the old command and control model had its time. Read on to find out what you can do to get results in today’s world. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Here is what happened a few days ago. I would love to hear your comments.…

Read More
A group of people walking in front of glass walls.

Hire Slow and Fire Fast: The Key to Long-Term Success

By Sylvia Lafair | October 29, 2024 | Comments Off on Hire Slow and Fire Fast: The Key to Long-Term Success

Summary: “Hire Slow, Fire Fast.” is a strategy that may seem counterintuitive in today’s rapid, results-driven environment. Yet, it’s an approach that many successful companies swear by for sustained growth and long-term success. Let’s look at how it can lead to better team dynamics, stronger performance, and a healthier work culture. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I…

Read More
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…

Read More
A large auditorium with many people sitting in it

Leadership Tips: Beyond Problem-Solving to Design Thinking

By Sylvia Lafair | October 21, 2024 | Comments Off on Leadership Tips: Beyond Problem-Solving to Design Thinking

Summary: Move beyond problem solving. Use design thinking to stay action-oriented and create a better future for your company. Then, you are in the driver’s seat of the fastest car that will get you from here to where you want to go. Design thinking is the winner. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I would like some ideas…

Read More
A man in grey shirt and tie looking up at hands.

How JUBLA (Judgment, Blame, or Attack) Will Make You Angrier and Keep You Feeling Like a Victim, And What to Do About It

By Sylvia Lafair | October 9, 2024 | Comments Off on How JUBLA (Judgment, Blame, or Attack) Will Make You Angrier and Keep You Feeling Like a Victim, And What to Do About It

Summary: When things don’t go as planned, it’s all too easy to slip into patterns of judgment, blame, or attack (JUBLA). These behaviors, however, are toxic. Not only do they escalate conflict, but they also keep you locked in a cycle of anger, frustration, and victimhood. Learn to move from victim to explorer using pattern…

Read More
A group of people holding hands on top of a mountain.

A Collaborative Journey to Success: How Direct Reports Can Talk Truth to Power and Help Their Boss Be More Effective

By Sylvia Lafair | September 24, 2024 | Comments Off on A Collaborative Journey to Success: How Direct Reports Can Talk Truth to Power and Help Their Boss Be More Effective

Summary: In the workplace, a hierarchical dynamic often characterizes the relationship between direct reports and their leaders. These power differences can create challenges regarding open and honest communication. But speaking truth to power is essential for a transparent and collaborative work environment. This can significantly enhance a leader’s effectiveness. Direct reports hold valuable insights about…

Read More
A group of people standing together in front of each other.

What to Look for in Executives as Role Models So Work Cultures Can Thrive

By Sylvia Lafair | September 16, 2024 | Comments Off on What to Look for in Executives as Role Models So Work Cultures Can Thrive

Summary: What separates an ordinary executive from one who serves as an exceptional role model? Whether you’re a business leader, an emerging professional, or part of a hiring committee, selecting a suitable executive role model is crucial for fostering a positive organizational culture. Here’s what matters. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I had an odd experience with…

Read More
A group of people taking a selfie in the grass.

The Main Problems Facing Emerging Adults (18-25) in a Chaotic World

By Sylvia Lafair | August 25, 2024 | Comments Off on The Main Problems Facing Emerging Adults (18-25) in a Chaotic World

Summary: Emerging adulthood, the phase between 18 and 25, is a period filled with both potential and pitfalls. As young adults navigate this transformative stage, there are numerous challenges exacerbated by the complexities of our chaotic modern world. Here’s a look at the main problems they encounter and how these challenges shape their journey into…

Read More