Managing Stress

A man standing on top of a hill with his arms in the air.

Unlock Freedom: Embrace the Hero’s Journey

By Sylvia Lafair | July 2, 2024 | Comments Off on Unlock Freedom: Embrace the Hero’s Journey

Summary: The hero’s journey, a narrative framework popularized by Joseph Campbell, is more than just a storytelling tool. It is a blueprint for personal transformation and freedom. By viewing our lives through the lens of the hero’s journey, we can find purpose, overcome obstacles, and achieve a profound sense of freedom. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I…

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A painting of a woman holding a baby

The Upside and Downside of Being a Mother

By Sylvia Lafair | May 9, 2024 | Comments Off on The Upside and Downside of Being a Mother

Summary: Being a mother is one of the most profound experiences a woman can have. It’s a journey with highs and lows, laughter and tears. Ultimately, it can be incredibly rewarding. Let’s look at the joys and challenges faced. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I am a working mom and I usually cringe with all the “sappy”…

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Pay Attention to What Makes YOU Happy

By Sylvia Lafair | April 23, 2024 | Comments Off on Pay Attention to What Makes YOU Happy

Dear Dr. Sylvia, I want to become a “glimmer gatherer.” You seem to be on a roll with fun ideas on how to follow your heart and also be successful. Please let me know what led you to this direction? I am at a crossroad in my career and need some new ideas as I…

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A group of people sitting around a table with turkey.

Thanksgiving 2023: How to Navigate for a Favorable Time with Family

By Sylvia Lafair | November 20, 2023 | Comments Off on Thanksgiving 2023: How to Navigate for a Favorable Time with Family

Summary: Did you know that Thanksgiving Day is a high-stress time for most people? Think of it this way. Family dynamics can be as diverse as the food on the table. Navigating family interactions during this holiday requires a delicate balance of understanding, communication, and patience. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I need help with the right…

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A man with a beard and a gas mask on his head is sitting at the computer.

Culture Killers in the Workplace: Unmasking the Culprits

By Sylvia Lafair | September 18, 2023 | Comments Off on Culture Killers in the Workplace: Unmasking the Culprits

Summary: A healthy workplace culture fosters employee engagement, innovation, and productivity. However, culture killers can be equally potent in dragging an organization down. These toxic elements can erode trust, hinder collaboration, and stifle creativity. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I know there will be missteps and upsets in every work arena. After all, humans are not perfect…

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10 reasons Why Parents MUST Be in Charge of Stress Management at Home

By Sylvia Lafair | August 14, 2023 | Comments Off on 10 reasons Why Parents MUST Be in Charge of Stress Management at Home

Summary: Parents who see the advantage of learning to keep stress in “the safe stress zone” can then take proactive steps to reduce stress at home and teach their children better-coping mechanisms. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I need a more effective way to handle the conflicts and yelling at home. My children are fine and fun…

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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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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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