Leadership Lessons: What Matters When You Tell The Truth

Image of boy and girl talking

Summary: In this era of social media excess, where everyone can offer their version of what is truth without fact-checking, it’s time for critical thinking to stop the dysfunction of speaking without considering the consequences of our words. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I have a question for you. Question: How many business coaches does it take…

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Time to Talk Truth to Power: Here’s What To Do

A graphic image of a loudspeaker

Summary: Learn how to speak up and be heard by someone in power. The “Four B’s” make it a slam dunk every time. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Did you ever think there would be a big push to consider employees’ mental health at work? Don’t get me wrong. I know it is essential to bring, as…

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Tom Brady, Microsoft Tablets, and Work/Home Relationships 

A picture of a football player wearing a jersey

Summary: Few things seem more different than the worlds of work and home. However, it is a myth that we can separate them. Stress in one area often tumbles into the other. Here are some tips for creating a better balance.  Dear Dr. Sylvia,  Yesterday I did what I now call “A Tom Brady move.† …

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How to Manage Anger at Work, Home, Everywhere 

An illustration and artwork describing anger management

Summary: What do you do when anger boils over into your relationships? Do you walk away from angry confrontations with ease and grace? Perhaps you are left with hurt feelings, emotional scars, or physical ills. Here are ways to control anger before it becomes a tsunami.   Dear Dr. Sylvia,  These days fill with tension and…

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Leadership Lessons: When Hidden Emotions Show Up

a flyer with group of diverse people smiling and posing

Summary: The emotions underneath leadership decisions are often ignored. Learning to read your specific personal concerns and upsets can lead to more effective leadership moving forward.  Dear Dr. Sylvia,  I cannot watch the news anymore without a knot in my stomach. When I see the fires roar around the world and the guns destroy lives,…

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What Happens to Women Leaders When They Tell The Truth?

Artwork and illustrations of different women leaders

Summary: There is always a risk to telling the truth. Is it more difficult for women to speak up? Most research says “yes.” Here is a way to be clear, heard, and respected.  Dear Dr. Sylvia,  As a leader, I know I must give difficult feedback to my team. However, I have not mastered “the…

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We All Tell Lies, Which Type of Liar Are You? 

I must not tell lies written over and over again in a notebook

Summary: We have all heard “the truth shall set you free,”; yet, lying is a daily occurrence. Read on to see which pattern, from fibs to fraud, fits your personality and, more importantly, what to do about it.  Dear Dr. Sylvia,  I don’t know who to believe anymore. When I ask my direct reports about…

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The Benefits of A Difficult Conversation

an artwork of an elephant with six people in a room

Summary: If being judged makes you uncomfortable, here are some ways to structure a feedback session for success. Who do you think has the most challenging time with feedback? Is it the giver or the receiver? Most leadership development programs focus on how the giver, the leader, discusses feedback with the receiver, the employee. The…

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