Fathers, Sons and The Power of Acknowledgement

A man and his son are smiling for the camera.

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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Fatal Flaws Are Patterns That Keep Us Stuck in Childhood Muck

A series of heads that are all in different colors.

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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How The Art of Pattern Recognition Increases the Bottom Line

A man writing on the wall with chalk.

Summary: At the heart of “Systems Thinking” lies the art of pattern recognition. Let’s explore its secrets through two captivating stories of individuals who harnessed the power of pattern recognition to achieve remarkable success. Dear Dr. Sylvia, “I agree!” “To what?” you ask. “To the fact that patterns will repeat and repeat unless you take…

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During Layoffs Here’s How Leaders Can Be “Pattern Pioneers” For Long-Term Success

A graphically designed image of a puzzle in the shape of a light bulb

Summary: Pioneers are typically free-thinking, adventurous, spontaneous, and highly creative. Leaders who sort out the difference between a work problem and an ongoing work pattern can lead their companies to long-term success. Dear Dr. Sylvia, My organization is going through the pain of layoffs. I know we are not alone here. However, that does not lessen…

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Leadership Lessons: How to Overcome Emotional Blind Spots

An illustration of different color eyes on an orange background

Summary: Everyone has them. You cannot see them, yet, they are part of your life and can destroy a career (or marriage) if left untended. Here’s help tackling this evasive, confusing area. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I had a BIG wake-up call last week. Now, I’m finally ready to talk about it. It is one of…

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Tyler Perry, Leadership, and Generational Forgiveness 

Paper broken heart sewn with needle and thread - Love troubles concept

Summary: Role models come from many walks of life. What really matters is how those you respect handle difficult situations. That is a gold standard for all leadership coaching programs. Here is one leader who stands out. Dear Dr. Sylvia,  I know in your leadership coaching program you have a process called Sankofa Mapping. I…

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How to Reduce Stress at Work: Avoid Toxic Social Narcissists  

A silhouette artwork and illustration of a walking man with crown

Summary: We live with fake news, general rancor, sizzle and sparkle, slander, and superficiality. As leaders, you must look at the information you receive more intently. Here are ways to judge if someone is here to help or hinder long-term success.  Dear Dr. Sylvia,  I watched a recent 60 Minutes segment that was chilling. It…

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We All Tell Lies, Which Type of Liar Are You? 

I must not tell lies written over and over again in a notebook

Summary: We have all heard “the truth shall set you free,”; yet, lying is a daily occurrence. Read on to see which pattern, from fibs to fraud, fits your personality and, more importantly, what to do about it.  Dear Dr. Sylvia,  I don’t know who to believe anymore. When I ask my direct reports about…

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