Posts Tagged ‘communication’
Thanksgiving 2023: How to Navigate for a Favorable Time with Family
Summary: Did you know that Thanksgiving Day is a high-stress time for most people? Think of it this way. Family dynamics can be as diverse as the food on the table. Navigating family interactions during this holiday requires a delicate balance of understanding, communication, and patience. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I need help with the right…
Read MoreHow Human Resources Can Use Systems Thinking to Stop Harassment Lawsuits
Summary: Human Resources can leverage systems thinking to reduce lawsuits by adopting a holistic and proactive approach to address organizational issues. Systems thinking involves understanding the interconnectedness of various components within a system and how they contribute to the overall outcomes. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Everyone is running to HR to complain. It is, however, the…
Read MoreTransforming Mindsets through Systems Thinking: The Way to Better Work Relationships
Summary: In a world fraught with division and conflict, the power of systems thinking can be a beacon of hope for transforming negative mindsets and forging connections. Here, I will explore the concept of systems thinking and its application in problem-solving. I am adding a compelling story that showcases how it can alter our perceptions…
Read MoreInvisible Loyalties: Why Generational Patterns Continue Over and Over
Summary: Generational issues have been an enduring facet of human society, seemingly immortal in their persistence. Time and again, we see rifts between generations, each believing their perspective is superior, their values paramount. To explore why these issues don’t go away, we’ll delve into the depths of human nature, psychological underpinnings, and cultural shifts. Dear…
Read MoreVengeance Is Not a Strategy; Here’s What Makes a Difference
Summary: In the annals of history, countless tales of vengeance and retribution have captured our imagination. From ancient feuds to epic battles and cinematic showdowns, the desire for payback has always been a compelling human narrative. Here is what makes the real difference. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I was thinking about you today. I was thinking…
Read MoreWhat We Can Learn From The Dark Psychology of War
Dear All, Today, I, once again, enter the darkness of what is happening in Israel and Palestine. In addition, it brings back memories of a time that seems a million years ago (actually twenty-one). That was when a group of my colleagues and I created The Center for Intercultural Dialogue. We were doing deep work…
Read MoreDeveloping Systems Thinking Competencies
Summary: Here, we develop competencies for effective systems thinking. Let’s explore these competencies using stories that illustrate their significance. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Is there a specific order for learning about Systems Thinking and Pattern Aware Leadership (PAL) methods? I am a senior VP at a well-known cosmetics company. Sales are saggy, like an older woman’s…
Read MoreNurturing Success: Ways to Foster Effective Group Dynamics in Your Team
Summary: Successful group dynamics are the bedrock for high-performing teams. Here are critical strategies to transform a group into a cohesive and productive team, from communication and trust-building to conflict resolution and goal alignment. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Firstly, I know effective group dynamics are essential for any team striving to achieve its goals. A team…
Read MoreCulture Killers in the Workplace: Unmasking the Culprits
Summary: A healthy workplace culture fosters employee engagement, innovation, and productivity. However, culture killers can be equally potent in dragging an organization down. These toxic elements can erode trust, hinder collaboration, and stifle creativity. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I know there will be missteps and upsets in every work arena. After all, humans are not perfect…
Read MoreWhat is “Eggshell Leadership?” And What To Do About It
Summary: When you have a leader with unpredictable moods, many employees feel their organization is like a roller coaster without a stop button. Here are some methods to reduce tension and exhaustion and create psychological safety. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Whenever I meet with my boss, I get a queasy feeling in my stomach. My work…
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