Bridge Builders: Connecting Generations in Leadership for a Stronger Tomorrow

A bridge that is over the water at sunset.

Summary: The synergy between different generations fosters innovation, growth, and sustained success. Let’s explore the role of “Bridge Builders” — individuals who actively work to connect generations in leadership, creating a dynamic and inclusive environment that benefits everyone involved. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Why do older people at work talk so much? They go on and…

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Breaking the Mold: Embracing Change at Home and In the Workplace

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Summary: In the ever-evolving landscape of life, individuals must recognize and challenge outdated behaviors that hinder personal and collective growth. Too often, people find themselves trapped in a cycle of repetitive actions that stifle creativity, hinder collaboration, and impede progress. It’s time to break free from the chains of outdated habits and embrace change for…

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Thanksgiving 2023: How to Navigate for a Favorable Time with Family

A group of people sitting around a table with turkey.

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…

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How Human Resources Can Use Systems Thinking to Stop Harassment Lawsuits

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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…

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Invisible Loyalties: Why Generational Patterns Continue Over and Over

A group of people standing next to each other.

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…

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Vengeance Is Not a Strategy; Here’s What Makes a Difference

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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…

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What We Can Learn From The Dark Psychology of War

A person 's hands with the world on them and birds flying around.

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…

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Developing Systems Thinking Competencies

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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…

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