Blogs

What You Can’t See Could Hurt You: The Importance of Learning About Invisible Stress

By Sylvia Lafair | October 13, 2024

Summary: Workplace stress has become a widespread issue. But what about the stress that goes unnoticed? The stress that lingers beneath the surface can impact your health, productivity, and even your relationships at work. This “invisible stress” is a silent force that can wreak havoc on an organization if left unchecked. Understanding and managing it…

How JUBLA (Judgment, Blame, or Attack) Will Make You Angrier and Keep You Feeling Like a Victim, And What to Do About It

By Sylvia Lafair | October 9, 2024

Summary: When things don’t go as planned, it’s all too easy to slip into patterns of judgment, blame, or attack (JUBLA). These behaviors, however, are toxic. Not only do they escalate conflict, but they also keep you locked in a cycle of anger, frustration, and victimhood. Learn to move from victim to explorer using pattern…

From Glimmers to Greatness: How Head, Heart, and Gut Connect for YOU to Win

By Sylvia Lafair | October 6, 2024

Summary: Every great achievement, breakthrough idea, and profound moment of success begins with a glimmer—a fleeting sense of possibility, a spark of intuition, or a flash of inspiration. These glimmers, often subtle and easily dismissed, are the seeds of greatness. Yet, the key to turning these sparks into lasting success lies not only in intellect…

Emotional Power: When Leaders Dare to Care

By Sylvia Lafair | October 1, 2024

Summary: As many seasoned leaders begin to step down from their roles, their wealth of knowledge and expertise offers valuable lessons for future leaders. Here, we consider both outdated, ingrained patterns and ones to retain. Dear Dr. Sylvia, The CEO of my very successful organization has announced his retirement. It will be before the end…

Leadership Development and Whose Fault Is It Anyway? Are YOU a YABBUT or NOT?

By Sylvia Lafair | September 29, 2024

Summary: There are many books about how to survive a toxic workplace. The big question is: Who makes the work setting toxic? Most of the books point the finger of blame at the boss or supervisor. Many books and sites about office politics are about what he, she, or they did that was insulting and…

A Collaborative Journey to Success: How Direct Reports Can Talk Truth to Power and Help Their Boss Be More Effective

By Sylvia Lafair | September 24, 2024

Summary: In the workplace, a hierarchical dynamic often characterizes the relationship between direct reports and their leaders. These power differences can create challenges regarding open and honest communication. But speaking truth to power is essential for a transparent and collaborative work environment. This can significantly enhance a leader’s effectiveness. Direct reports hold valuable insights about…

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…

What to Look for in Executives as Role Models So Work Cultures Can Thrive

By Sylvia Lafair | September 16, 2024

Summary: What separates an ordinary executive from one who serves as an exceptional role model? Whether you’re a business leader, an emerging professional, or part of a hiring committee, selecting a suitable executive role model is crucial for fostering a positive organizational culture. Here’s what matters. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I had an odd experience with…

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…

Managing Emotional Triggers at Work: How “The Clown” Can Block Team Collaboration and Cause Frustration

By Sylvia Lafair | September 8, 2024

Summary: Workplace dynamics can be challenging, especially when emotional triggers go unchecked. One of the most common—and often misunderstood—roles that surfaces under pressure is “The Clown.” This individual, while seeking to bring levity, often derails important conversations with ill-timed jokes that frustrate and disengage the team. Here we explore how “The Clown,” as discussed in…

What To Do When Conflict Effects Culture Emotionally As Well As Fiscally

By Sylvia Lafair | September 4, 2024

Summary: Pay attention to those glimmers, good or bad, that you can feel in your gut. They are there to direct you to make changes so you don’t get stuck in overwhelm and burnout. These glimmers are like an internal GPS helping you navigate a positive life path. These glimmers are game changers. Find a…

The Splitter: How One Toxic Personality Can Lead to Absenteeism, Lawsuits, and Lower Productivity in Your Organization

By Sylvia Lafair | September 2, 2024

Summary: When someone pits people against each other everyone loses. In any organization, the presence of a “Splitter” can wreak havoc, leading to a cascade of issues, including increased absenteeism, costly lawsuits, and low productivity. Understanding this destructive behavior is crucial for leaders who want to maintain a healthy workplace. Here we delve into the…

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