Blogs
How to Spot Manipulative Individuals
Before They Take You for a Ride with Your Work and Your MoneySummary: Have you ever met someone who seemed too good to be true, only to later realize they had manipulated, deceived, or even financially exploited you? If so, you encountered a “toxic friend.” In the workplace, these manipulative folks can be incredibly charming,…
Transforming Triggers into Pathways for Work and Personal Growth
Summary: Do you ever sidestep discomfort, avoiding situations that unsettle you? Yet, these moments—your emotional triggers—are key to profound self-discovery and growth. By confronting and understanding your triggers, you can transform them from sources of distress into valuable teachers. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Yesterday, at my semi-annual review with my boss, he told me, and I…
Valentine’s Day Reflection: Hearing the Words Within your “Heart”
Dear All, Have a sweet and caring Valentine’s Day with your loved ones. Along with flowers and chocolates, here are some thoughts to consider. Valentine’s Day is a time for love, connection, and deep listening—not just with our ears but with our hearts. Ultimately, it’s a day when words carry more meaning. Think about when…
Misdirected Anger and Caring: Two Sides of the Same Coin in Leadership and Life
Summary: Have you ever lashed out at someone who doesn’t deserve it? Or overextended kindness in a situation where you need firm boundaries? These are two common behaviors in both personal and professional life—misdirected anger and misdirected caring. They may seem like opposites, but they stem from the same root cause: unresolved patterns that cause…
Accountability vs. Empty Cheerleading
Why Words Without Action Fall Flat Summary: Social media is flooded with motivational quotes, teammates cheer each other on, and friends offer endless support. But when it comes to real progress, there’s a stark difference between being a cheerleader and having a sense of accountability. Dear Dr. Sylvia, My CEO recently hired a new Chief…
Celebrate with Me: Two Leadership Awards in One Week
Summary: Dr. Sylvia Lafair stands out in the field of leadership development due to her innovative approach. She intertwines psychology and systems thinking with organizational behavior. This brings a unique perspective that has transformed how leaders and teams operate. Dear Dr Sylvia, I am one of your most ardent fans. Through our work together, you…
Legacy Leadership : What Business Leaders Can Teach Their Grandchildren
Summary: As a leader, you’ve spent a lifetime navigating challenges, making tough decisions, and shaping organizations. But beyond business success, your true legacy lies in the lessons you leave behind. While profits and accolades may fade, the wisdom you pass down to your grandchildren will endure for generations. Dear Dr. Sylvia (aka Grandmom), I have…
How Patterns of Behavior Differ from Habits: What You Need to Know
Summary: Understanding the distinction between behavior patterns and habits is essential when examining personal growth and professional success. Although we often use these terms interchangeably, they represent two distinct concepts that impact how we navigate relationships, make decisions, and respond to challenges. Let’s delve into how patterns of behavior and habits differ and why recognizing…
Stress Goes for a Touchdown
How Excellent Behavior Leads to Victory On and Off the Field Summary: As Super Bowl LIX nears, the NFL’s best will take the field, showcasing skill, strategy, and sportsmanship. The game will offer leadership lessons far beyond touchdowns, teaching us that character and excellent behavior often define true winners. Dear Dr. Sylvia, There is so…
How to Stop Stress: Step From Self-doubt to Self -aware and finally to Self-confident
Summary: Stress is a multifaceted and annoying creature. One of the deepest holes to dig out of is self-doubt. Yes, it takes a willingness to look inside yourself for the why and the where that feeling of not being good enough began. Here are some thoughts on taming your own stress monster. Dear Dr. Sylvia…
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…
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…
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