Critical Thinking for Twenty-first Century Leaders

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Summary: Leaders are constantly faced with challenges that require them to analyze information. You must also evaluate alternatives and make decisions that have far-reaching consequences. Critical thinking is the ability to think clearly and rationally. You must study and evaluate information to arrive at sound judgments and decisions. Here are ways to bring these skills…

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The Cost of Stress: How Leaders Can Stay Resilient

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Summary: As leaders, it is essential to take care of yourselves so that you can take care of your team and your customers. Here are some tips and strategies to help you manage stress and lead your team effectively. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I just read that stress in the workplace is a billion-dollar problem. Not…

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The Cost of Gun Violence: Educators and Health Professionals Must Examine the Devastating Impact on Those Who Survive

A road sign for stopping gun violence

Summary: Gun violence in America has become a vicious cycle perpetuating from generation to generation. It’s time to go “upriver” to solve this crisis. Educators and health professionals are the first lines of defense. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Yet again! Another shooting at a school. More dead, children and adults. What are we missing? The issue…

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Here’s What It Takes To Become Conflict Competent

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Summary: How much time do you spend angry and upset with your colleagues, friends, or family? It’s time to learn the skills of being conflict competent. That means you have the right communication system to speak and be heard. More than that, you lead others to solutions that benefit all. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Everyone seems…

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How to Banish the GOTCHA GAME at Work

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Summary: Love it or hate it; it won’t go away. Not those extra 10 pounds! I’m talking about conflict. Those annoying times when you are at odds with someone when you are pissed off with a client, supplier, staff, or even your best friend. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Is it me? Or is the world becoming…

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Here’s How Educators Can Stop Excessive Conflict in Schools

Cartoon image of people talking to each other.

Summary: In every work setting, especially in schools, there is a time when individuals throw up their hands and ask, “Why can’t we all just get along!” Here are tools and techniques that answer this question and create a more efficient, collaborative culture for educators. Dear Dr. Sylvia. Why does conflict run rampant in today’s…

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Tom Brady, Microsoft Tablets, and Work/Home Relationships 

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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

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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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