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

By Sylvia Lafair | May 15, 2024 | Comments Off on When It’s Time to Hand in Your Resignation: Navigating a Toxic Workplace

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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Leadership Education: Unveiling Systemic Thinking Through Unlikely Connections

By Sylvia Lafair | May 13, 2024 | Comments Off on Leadership Education: Unveiling Systemic Thinking Through Unlikely Connections

Summary: Navigating the interconnected web of systems requires more than just surface-level observation. It demands a holistic perspective that requires brave leadership. No more yes/no, good/bad. Let’s use The Ohio University Marching Band and a child eating cereal to unveil the essence of systemic thinking. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Thank you for suggesting we check out…

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The Pursuit of Happiness: Unraveling the Truth Behind Our Obsession

By Sylvia Lafair | April 26, 2024 | Comments Off on The Pursuit of Happiness: Unraveling the Truth Behind Our Obsession

Summary: From self-help books to social media influencers, the pursuit of happiness is everywhere. We’re bombarded with messages that suggest happiness is not only achievable but also mandatory for a fulfilling life. But is our obsession with being happy truly warranted? And what is the real truth behind this relentless pursuit? Dear Dr. Sylvia, I…

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The Path to Long-Term Well-being at Work: Exploring the Difference Between Peace and Harmony

By Sylvia Lafair | February 5, 2024 | Comments Off on The Path to Long-Term Well-being at Work: Exploring the Difference Between Peace and Harmony

Summary: In the quest for healthier work settings, the concepts of peace and harmony emerge as crucial pillars. Both ideas advocate for positive change. Let’s examine which offers a better route for long-term well-being at work. Dear Dr. Sylvia, We are having an interesting “intellectual argument” at work. Many are tired of all the conflict…

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The Art of Achieving Zenith Leadership

By Sylvia Lafair | November 29, 2023 | Comments Off on The Art of Achieving Zenith Leadership

Summary: In the dynamic realm of leadership, finding the equilibrium between the passionate “Red Hots” and the composed “Ice Colds” is a delicate art. Striking this balance fosters a harmonious work environment and propels teams toward unparalleled success. Dear Dr. Sylvia, My boss is a red hot mess! For example, she yells and makes ugly…

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A person holding onto a book that says " don 't bring it to work ".

“Don’t Bring It to Work” is a Game-changer for Mental Health in the Workplace

By Sylvia Lafair | October 2, 2023 | Comments Off on “Don’t Bring It to Work” is a Game-changer for Mental Health in the Workplace

Summary: This book is a powerful guide that transforms how we approach our professional lives and enhances our growth journey. It’s all connected. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Your book, “Don’t Bring It To Work,” has helped me interact more effectively with staff. We use it at our numerous salons in the New Orleans area. For this…

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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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A Tale of Two Generations: Impact of Author Ernest Hemingway’s Childhood on His Transgender Son

By Sylvia Lafair | June 6, 2023 | Comments Off on A Tale of Two Generations: Impact of Author Ernest Hemingway’s Childhood on His Transgender Son

Summary: Mental health is part of the business world for all leaders to consider at work. Pride Month offers a time to look at this complex topic through the life of Ernest Hemingway. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I am struggling with a senior VP who announced he is becoming a she. “They,” asked how that would…

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How to Leap into the New Year and Let Your Dreams Take Flight

By Sylvia Lafair | December 27, 2022 | Comments Off on How to Leap into the New Year and Let Your Dreams Take Flight

Summary: This is a great time to think about how you want to advance your career and your relationships. Go ahead, take a leap of faith. Here’s what to do.  Dear ….  Did you know that at least 50% of adults make new year’s resolutions?  Mostly they are about more exercise, less weight, healthier eating,…

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How Leaders Can Move Past “Survival of the Fittest” to “Survive and Be Fit” 

By Sylvia Lafair | May 24, 2022 | Comments Off on How Leaders Can Move Past “Survival of the Fittest” to “Survive and Be Fit” 

Summary: External forces keep us on our toes, ready to react. Here we discuss the hidden reasons for why we respond as we do.  Dear Dr. Sylvia,  I’ll cut right to the chase. Time is going by, and I am frustrated and worried.  I am a 47-year-old healthy male who is the CFO of a…

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