Blogs
How Fires, Floods, and Wars Impact “Safe Zones”
The Illusions of Safety: How Fires, Floods, and Wars Impact the Daily Lives of Those in “Safe Zones”Summary: No one is truly untouched in a world increasingly defined by its challenges—climate change, wildfires, droughts, and conflicts. While some regions experience these crises firsthand, others may seem to exist in “safe zones.” Yet, the ripple effects…
Facing Irrevocable Change and Navigating Tough Times
Summary: Change, of course, is an inevitable part of life, but some changes hit us harder than others. These are the seismic shifts—the ones that feel irrevocable, reshaping the foundation of our world. Whether it’s losing a loved one, a significant career upheaval, or moments being caught in the extremes of climate change, that’s when…
Leadership Lessons from the Film “Inside Out Two”: What Happens When Old Memories Cause Stress
Summary: Leadership often feels like a balancing act between managing the present and navigating the baggage of the past. For many leaders, old memories triggered by stressful situations can derail focus, cloud decision-making, and create internal turmoil. Don’t stay in adolescent reactions. Here’s how to release what no longer works. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I am…
How to Lose 7 Pounds of Emotional Stress in 7 Days
Summary: Ah, stress. It’s like that unexpected guest who shows up, plants themselves on your couch, and refuses to leave until you figure out what they’re really there for. But here’s the kicker: what if stress wasn’t the villain we always make it out to be? What if we started this shiny new year by…
Become a PAL (Pattern Aware Leader) in 2025: How to Release Outdated Patterns and Lead Like Never Before!
Summary: Ready to kick off the new year by becoming the leader you were always meant to be? One who doesn’t just manage the team—but inspires, empowers, and creates a culture that thrives? It’s time to step into your new role as a PAL—a Pattern Aware Leader! This isn’t just about leading with authority; it’s…
How to Be Your Best Self in 2025: Don’t Waste Your New Year Resolutions
Summary: Ah, the New Year. The time when we all gather ‘round and try to figure out how we will turn into superheroes overnight. You know, with those resolutions that promise to transform us into versions of ourselves that could probably bench-press a car and perform ballet in our sleep. But here’s a thought: what…
A Holiday Reflection: Finding Hope in the Season’s Honest Truths
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…
The Importance of Presence Over Presents
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…
From Glimmer to Glow: How the path to flow state transforms your life
Dear Dr. Sylvia, I know this sounds delusional. However, I want to change my career. I want to make the shift now. Let me explain. I am a lawyer and work in a prestigeous law firm. Hiwever, the dream to be a lawyer was my father’s desire for me. I was such a “good child”…
How to Break Free from Secondhand Stress: What It Is and Where It Comes From
Dear Dr. Sylvia, Everyone has secondhand stress these days. It’s not that different than getting sick from someone smoking near you. I can be happy and positive, and then someone will enter the meeting with a frown and a bag full of negatives, and suddenly, my smile leaves, and I can feel that annoying knot…
From One-Upper to Creative Collaborator
Transforming the Workplace Super Achiever Dear Dr. Sylvia, I work with the most annoying super achiever. That is to say, she always has a better response, a more thoughtful comment, and a “great” way to handle conflict (even though she creates much of the chaos at work). In addition, my team and I need help…
The Essence of Powerful Storytelling
How to Get Your Point Across at Work Storytelling is one of the most effective ways to communicate ideas, influence perspectives, and inspire action. However, it can also offend or alienate your audience when not handled with care. The secret to powerful storytelling lies in the balance between conveying your message and maintaining sensitivity. Dear…