Managing Stress

Two Golden State Warriors’ basketball players

Rebuilding Trust: The Warriors’ Path to Championship Greatness after the “Green-Poole Incident”

By Sylvia Lafair | May 26, 2023 | Comments Off on Rebuilding Trust: The Warriors’ Path to Championship Greatness after the “Green-Poole Incident”

Summary: What happens when a fist hits flesh? Or when words sting and burn? Conflict is a BIG problem that can make teams thrive if handled effectively. Conversely, customers and employees leave (or lose championship games) when conflict is swept under the rug. Here are my thoughts about best practices for conflict resolution. Dear Dr.…

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A girl wearing glasses and holding onto a pile of books, smiling for the camera in front of a blackboard

10 Proven Strategies for Educators to Empower Students in Coping with Stress

By Sylvia Lafair | March 31, 2023 | Comments Off on 10 Proven Strategies for Educators to Empower Students in Coping with Stress

Summary: Is the world spinning out of control? It feels that way with the speed of negative issues that seem to impact everyone, everywhere, all at once. Here are some ways to help students cope with the complexities of modern life. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I am a high school English teacher. My kids are hurting…

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Influential Leaders Practice Safe Stress

By Sylvia Lafair | January 13, 2023 | Comments Off on Influential Leaders Practice Safe Stress

Summary: The beginning of each new year offers unique possibilities for growth and health. At the core, it is mostly about attitude. Here are some tips on navigating your world to make it special. Dear Dr. Sylvia, The new year has not been friendly to me. To clarify, I live in what used to be…

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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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What Educators Face as The World Changes and Helpful Solutions

By Sylvia Lafair | December 12, 2022 | Comments Off on What Educators Face as The World Changes and Helpful Solutions

Summary: We are in new territory post-pandemic, and the education system needs an upgrade, or we will keep losing dedicated educators. Here’s what to do. With a radical idea at the end of this post. If you’re a classroom teacher feeling the pressure of your job, I can help you identify the signs of teacher…

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An illustration and art of men and women having a conversation

Upgrade Your Soft Skills; Needed Now More Than Ever

By Sylvia Lafair | November 30, 2022 | Comments Off on Upgrade Your Soft Skills; Needed Now More Than Ever

Summary: The rules of the game of work are changing. We are in the middle of a behavior reframe. Social media teaches us that “if you think it, you should say it,” regardless of consequences. Not true! Here is a better way. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Holiday time is upon us at full speed. For example,…

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A picture of a coffee cup in a yellow background

Is Holiday Pressure High? Science Suggests A Coffee Break And Then Do This

By Sylvia Lafair | November 23, 2022 | Comments Off on Is Holiday Pressure High? Science Suggests A Coffee Break And Then Do This

Summary: Fourth quarter is looming in front of you—bonuses at work, gifts for family and friends at home, — overthinking everything. The benefits of putting your career on hold, even for a brief time, are essential. It’s equally important to do something positive. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I don’t have time to stop. Even taking time…

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Image of employees working

Leadership Lessons: How Professionals Use The Stories You Tell Yourselves for Success

By Sylvia Lafair | November 21, 2022 | Comments Off on Leadership Lessons: How Professionals Use The Stories You Tell Yourselves for Success

Summary: When stress hits the hot button, there is often a downward spiral. What you say to yourself causes stress to spike even more. Here’s what to do to prevent a meltdown. Every career has its struggles. We all know that! However, when the negative outweighs the positive, it becomes a trap. What kind of…

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An illustration and artwork of a woman sitting on chair

Guess Which 3 Professions Top The Extreme Stress Scale? (Hint: Lawyers are #2).

By Sylvia Lafair | November 14, 2022 | Comments Off on Guess Which 3 Professions Top The Extreme Stress Scale? (Hint: Lawyers are #2).

Summary: The pandemic showed us where weak spots cause extreme stress and burnout. Here is what to do to recharge your batteries and have less stress. You and I know everyone has a rough day or two or three. That’s when you tell yourself it’s time to take a break, eat a favorite food, and…

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