Managing Stress

Creative Energy Options

Leadership in Times of Stress and Change

By Sylvia Lafair | June 8, 2021 |

Summary: Do you, as a leader, work under intense pressure? My guess is the answer is a resounding “yes.” Here’s what to do. Leadership needs a clear vision to not collide with stress For example, can you keep your employees aligned on vision, mission, and results? Or is conflict higher than ever? To clarify, what…

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How Leaders Increase Work and Personal Productivity With Less Stress

By Sylvia Lafair | June 2, 2021 | Comments Off on How Leaders Increase Work and Personal Productivity With Less Stress

New discussions are popping, indicating leadership is not just about business anymore. It never really was. Conversations now address life’s purpose. Here is how you can decrease stress, increase productivity, and be confident in your decisions. Can you really balance the work-home conundrum? Dear Dr. Sylvia, I have been so comfortable working from home. I…

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The Importance of Mental Health Awareness Month for Leaders at Work, Home, Everywhere

By Sylvia Lafair | May 4, 2021 | Comments Off on The Importance of Mental Health Awareness Month for Leaders at Work, Home, Everywhere

Did you know that May is Mental Health Awareness Month? It’s a great time to spotlight effective ways to let go of over-the-top stress and anxiety. Above all, Covid has profoundly impacted people of all ages at home, school, and work. Now, more than ever, the stigma around mental health struggles needs to be addressed.…

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When Feedback Makes YOU Defensive Here’s What To Do About It

By Sylvia Lafair | April 28, 2021 | Comments Off on When Feedback Makes YOU Defensive Here’s What To Do About It

From the time we arrive on the planet, we are in a constant feedback loop. Before we have verbal language to support us, we use body language. For example: cry for a diaper change or food, and someone shows up. Studies show that babies respond to the nonverbal messages from a caretaker and adjust to…

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How Perfectionists Limit Stress (at least for a short time)

By Sylvia Lafair | April 20, 2021 |

Do you work or live with someone who are perfectionists and want everything to be “just right?” Or perhaps you are the one who says, “Nah, it’s not ready yet. I still need to make it better.” Where, oh where, do you think that yearning to be perfect comes from? Above all, it’s from fear…

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5 Surprising Secrets Leaders Use to Stay Calm When Stress Is High

By Sylvia Lafair | April 13, 2021 | Comments Off on 5 Surprising Secrets Leaders Use to Stay Calm When Stress Is High

Your performance as a leader is directly related to how calm you can remain when stress hits the hot button. Above all, learn various ways to keep that darn stress at bay. The only thing that won’t work is to be told, “Stay calm.” Above all, what you need to do is… something. Here’s what…

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5 Ways for Leaders to Lessen Stress at Work

By Sylvia Lafair | April 1, 2021 | Comments Off on 5 Ways for Leaders to Lessen Stress at Work

Dear Dr. Sylvia,My boss decided that it was time for him to retire. Consequently, I am nominated to take his position. Above all, I am honored and very nervous. Yes, very nervous! Therefore, I need some help from you. Firstly, I want to take advantage of your vast knowledge of workplace relationships and your astute…

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Can’t Decide? Yes, No, Maybe? Here’s What To Do

By Sylvia Lafair | March 6, 2021 | Comments Off on Can’t Decide? Yes, No, Maybe? Here’s What To Do

How to decide what to decide. Do you get all tangled up inside when you have to make a big decision? Or even a small one? For instance, “The tie comes in blue, red or leopard print. Which do I get?” Another example, “Is hotel A or B best for our summer vacation? Wait, what…

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Conflict Competence: The Answer to Your Stress

By Sylvia Lafair | February 25, 2021 | Comments Off on Conflict Competence: The Answer to Your Stress

Stressed out? Conflict competence is the solution. Read on to learn more… Dear Dr Sylvia,   I have a question. I need more than just a simple answer.  Therefore, what I am asking for is a solution.  Further, I need an action plan.  As a result, if you can do that, I will follow you forever.  To clarify, let me say,…

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Procrastinate? Who Me? I’ll Get Back To You About This Tomorrow!

By Sylvia Lafair | February 25, 2021 | Comments Off on Procrastinate? Who Me? I’ll Get Back To You About This Tomorrow!

Wonder why you keep putting off doing things? What or who do you blame? Here we explore the procrastinator-perfection-paralysis syndrome. Hey, you wonder what is procrastination anyway. It really comes down to one ugly underlying habit: people-pleasing. Here’s how to stop. Dear Dr. Sylvia,  It took me weeks to finally press the “send” button on my email…

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