Mental Health

Cookies for holiday reflections

A Holiday Reflection: Finding Hope in the Season’s Honest Truths

By Sylvia Lafair | December 26, 2024 |

Summary: The holiday season is often wrapped in shimmering lights, cheerful music, and the promise of togetherness. Yet, for many, it brings a complex mix of emotions: nostalgia, joy, longing, and stress. This is a time to pause, reflect, and connect with the holiday season in our increasingly complicated world. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I keep…

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Girl holding Christmas trees in front of her eyes to celebrate the holidays

The Importance of Presence Over Presents

By Sylvia Lafair | December 24, 2024 |

Summary: It’s easy to equate showing love and appreciation with giving physical gifts. Presents can be thoughtful and meaningful. However, something far more valuable cannot be wrapped or tied with a bow: your presence. Here are some things to think about. Dear Dr. Sylvia, When all the “oooh’s and ahhha’s” after unwrapping the special gifts…

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Woman meditating against a red background.

Want Less Stress, and Feel “SO ZEN”: How to Keep The Stress Hormone Cortisol in Check

By Sylvia Lafair | November 25, 2024 |

Summary: Stress is a natural part of life, and our bodies are designed to handle it, at least in short bursts. At the center of this response lies cortisol, the primary hormone responsible for regulating stress. However, in today’s world of relentless deadlines, 24/7 connectivity, and mounting pressures, cortisol levels can remain chronically high, leading…

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A painting of albert einstein with a space background.

The Power of Glimmers: How Intuition Can Lead to Great Discoveries

By Sylvia Lafair | November 3, 2024 |

Summary: Throughout history, many groundbreaking discoveries, made not solely through logical reasoning or methodical experimentation, came from intuitive “glimmers.” These seemingly fleeting moments of insight that connect head, heart, and gut play pivotal roles in shaping science, art, and innovation. You can use these glimmers as a leader in your own life to make a…

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A woman is holding her head in front of many post it notes.

Managing Excessive Stress in Today’s World: Practice Safe Stress. Read “Invisible Stress: It’s NOT What You Think!”

By Sylvia Lafair | September 18, 2024 |

Summary: Stress has always been a part of everyday life. However, in today’s harried world, it’s on steroids! Work pressures, personal responsibilities, and constant connectivity make escaping it impossible. Yet, the real issue isn’t just stress itself—how we respond to it. Excessive stress can lead to burnout, mental health struggles, and physical problems if left…

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A wooden table with blocks that spell out just say no.

The Power of “No”: Why We Fear It and How to Reclaim Its Strength

By Sylvia Lafair | September 11, 2024 |

Summary: Most of us consider being a “yes ” person a positive in the work world. Sadly, “yes” often overshadows the importance of that simple, two-letter word: “no.” Yet, “no” is a word that can protect our time, energy, and well-being. So why are we so afraid of it? When you understand the power of…

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A woman holding an open box of office supplies.

Why People Resign: Pay Attention To Those Glimmers of Discontent

By Sylvia Lafair | August 9, 2024 |

Summary: Resignations are becoming more common as employees seek environments that align with their values, aspirations, and well-being. Understanding why people resign is crucial for employees and employers, as it can lead to more fulfilling careers and healthier workplaces. Here are the reasons behind resignations and energizing solutions to create better work environments. Dear Dr…

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A man in a crown and a painting of a man

The Upside and Downside of Freedom: A Deep Dive Inspired by “King George” from “Hamilton”

By Sylvia Lafair | July 4, 2024 |

Summary: Freedom is a multifaceted concept that evokes a sense of power, autonomy, and self-determination. However, the other side of the coin often presents challenges, responsibilities, and unforeseen consequences. Here, we will explore freedom, using the poignant lyrics of King George III’s song from the musical “Hamilton.†Dear Dr. Sylvia, I was thinking about that…

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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 |

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 man holding an envelope in his hand.

When It’s Time to Hand in Your Resignation: Navigating a Toxic Workplace

By Sylvia Lafair | May 15, 2024 |

Summary: Making the decision to resign from a job is rarely easy, but when your workplace becomes toxic, filled with blaming and judging, it might be the best step for your mental health and career growth. Here’s a guide to recognizing the signs, preparing for the transition, and ultimately handing in your resignation with grace…

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