Conversation, Debate, or Dialogue? The Path That Truly Transforms

Statues of Greek philosophers sharing coffee, symbolizing dialogue in leadership and the power of listening to understand.

Summary: It’s easy to confuse talking with connecting. But not all talking is created equal. There are three very different forms of verbal exchange: conversation, debate, and dialogue. And the one that can change the future, at work, at home, and in the community, is the one we practice the least: dialogue. Dear Dr. Sylvia,…

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When Trauma Giants Falter: A Rashomon Moment at Omega Institute

Summary: Leaders who can hold the “both/and” philosophy in our polarizing world are needed more than ever. CEO’s VP’s. therapists, educators, trainers, coaches, directors, and media do best when they lead others to better ways of interacting rather than telling them what is right or wrong. Here are some thoughts to consider. Dear Dr. Sylvia,…

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Coincidence or Synchronicity? Here’s the Twist.

A glowing constellation in a night sky above a quiet forest path, symbolizing the difference between coincidence and synchronicity as patterns that reveal hidden meaning.

Summary: A coincidence is like bumping into an old friend at the grocery store when you’re both reaching for the same bag of organic spinach. Random, curious, and a little funny. Synchronicity, though, that’s a whole different ball game. It’s when life’s things come together like a cosmic stage manager with perfect timing. Read on.…

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When Conflict Hits: Align Your Head, Heart, and Gut

In times of chaos and conflict, most people either freeze, fume, or flee. But smart leaders? They align. Align what, you ask? Not your calendar. Not your chakras (though hey, that might help too). We’re talking about Triple Alignment™: Head, Heart, Gut. It’s a new way of thinking about conflict resolution for leaders. Dear Dr.…

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Breaking the Cycle: How Patterns Shape Workplace Tension

Breaking the cycle of emotional patterns

Lisa’s response to Greg wasn’t just a moment of emotional intelligence—it was a shift in a long-standing workplace pattern. If she had reacted with defensiveness, their conflict would have deepened, reinforcing a cycle of hostility. Instead, by stepping back and choosing curiosity over combat, she disrupted the dynamic. This is what pattern awareness is all…

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How Fires, Floods, and Wars Impact “Safe Zones”

People sticking together in 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…

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Nurturing Success: Ways to Foster Effective Group Dynamics in Your Team

A group of people that are sitting around a table

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…

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Conflict Competence: The Answer to Your Stress

Creative Energy Options

Stressed out? Conflict competence is the solution. Read on to learn more… Dear Dr Sylvia,   I have a question. I need more than just a simple answer.  Therefore, what I am asking for is a solution.  Further, I need an action plan.  As a result, if you can do that, I will follow you forever.  To clarify, let me say,…

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