Fathers, Sons and The Power of Acknowledgement

Summary: This is in honor of Father’s Day. It explores how men help boys grow to be the best they can be. It’s never too late to use the power of acknowledgment. Then, father-son relationships become a solid base for health and well-being. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I have heard you say many times that women…

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The Immutable Leader: Understanding the Impact on Organizational Dynamics

Summary: Some leaders firmly believe that individuals do not fundamentally change. This belief can profoundly impact an organization’s culture, employee morale, and productivity. Let’s explore the characteristics of such a leader and their potential effects on their organization. Dear Dr. Sylvia, The Founder and CEO of my company and I had a dispute last week.…

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Six Questions to Ask in Uncertain Times

Summary: Effective leadership development requires us to read the signs of the times and lead people to a better, more positive place. How do we move from pistols to peace-tools? Key questions are below. Dear Dr. Sylvia, We are living in a world of extremes. That shows up at my organization all the time. Those…

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Fatal Flaws Are Patterns That Keep Us Stuck in Childhood Muck

Summary: Childhood is a critical period of development where individuals learn and internalize behaviors, beliefs, and coping mechanisms. These early experiences significantly shape our adult personalities. This includes the fatal flaws that may hinder our success and happiness. A fatal flaw is a character defect that leads to significant challenges or failures in life. Understanding…

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The Dichotomy of Power: How Emotionally Powerless Leaders Seek External Dominance

Summary: Leaders are often seen as paragons of strength and confidence. Yet beneath this façade, many grapple with feelings of powerlessness. This emotional turmoil can significantly impact their leadership style, prompting a compensatory quest for external power. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for fostering healthier leadership and organizational cultures. Dear Dr. Sylvia, One Senior Vice…

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Leadership Training: The Enduring Relevance of Galileo’s Struggle with Truth

Summary: The world premiere of “Galileo: A Rock Musical” recently opened at The Berkeley Repertory Theater. This unique production, like Bertolt Brecht’s play ‘Galileo,'(1939), is a profound and compelling dramatization of the life of the famous Italian astronomer and physicist Galileo Galilei. Both critically explore the conflicts between science and religious dogma, ethics, and societal…

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Leadership Training is Vital for All Companies

Summary: Effective leadership training enhances organizational performance. It also fosters innovation, and builds resilience in facing challenges; Here’s an exploration of why leadership training is essential. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I am the head of HR at a company that is growing at warp speed. However, many of those on the newly formed Executive Team and…

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The Upside and Downside of Being a Mother

Summary: Being a mother is one of the most profound experiences a woman can have. It’s a journey with highs and lows, laughter and tears. Ultimately, it can be incredibly rewarding. Let’s look at the joys and challenges faced. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I am a working mom and I usually cringe with all the “sappy”…

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