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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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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Peace Tools NOT Pistols (or any other weapons of destruction)

gun violence a public health issue placard

Summary: It is critical to look “upriver” to solve the polarization and violence we are now seeing at work, at home, and in our communities.  Dear …  I am getting so many questions from leaders and emerging leaders about the polarization of our society and the number of attacks on innocent people that I want…

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It’s Time to Transform Splitters into Peacemakers

Image of wordings message of peace

Summary: There is so much disagreement in today’s world. Much of it is due to the behavior pattern of separating people into being “for” and “against” each other. Do you know a splitter (or are you one)? Here are ways out of the tangled web that causes the split for hate and even war to…

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Pandora, Stress Management, and Hope

Creative Energy Options

Here is a timely story for this holiday season. It starts with a wedding gift. So far, so good. It was a gift from Zeus to the gorgeous young bride, Pandora. However, Zeus put Pandora in a double bind. You see, while she received this beautiful box (actually, in Greek mythology, it’s a jar). The…

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What YOU Can Do If Your Direct Reports Hate Your Guts!

Creative Energy Options

Summary: “I hate my boss” is a common comment in most workplaces. How do you know if you fit the category? Here’s the litmus test. Being a Boss Means YOU Must Handle Conflict at Work You’ve received a promotion. Congrats. You feel confident and ready for the challenge. That is to say, you’re now the…

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Are You Emotionally Intelligent?

Creative Energy Options

Dear Dr Sylvia, I have been reading a lot about emotional intelligence recently. My first question is, ‘what is emotional intelligence?’ Actually, I think it is about the capacity to control and express oneself and handle interpersonal relationships with ease, Am I right? I think so. Therefore, I would love to hear your answer to…

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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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