Conflict Resolutions

Navigating Workplace Dilemmas: Unraveling the “He Said/She Said/They Said” Conundrum

By Sylvia Lafair | March 4, 2024 | Comments Off on Navigating Workplace Dilemmas: Unraveling the “He Said/She Said/They Said” Conundrum

Summary: Let’s explore the complexities of the “He Said/She Said/They Said” mismatched stories at work. I want to shed light on potential consequences and offer strategies to address and prevent such scenarios. Dear Dr. Sylvia, We had three excellent employees resign in the past month. They all had the same frustration. There was a promise…

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Turn Adversaries into Allies: How Your Enemies Can Become Your Greatest Teachers

By Sylvia Lafair | November 28, 2023 | Comments Off on Turn Adversaries into Allies: How Your Enemies Can Become Your Greatest Teachers

Summary: We often encounter adversaries who challenge us, push our boundaries, and sometimes make our paths seem arduous. However, what if we could shift our perspective and view these adversaries not as obstacles but valuable teachers? Here, we explore the profound idea that your enemies can be your most incredible instructors, guiding you toward personal…

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The Psychology of Hope

By Sylvia Lafair | November 7, 2023 | Comments Off on The Psychology of Hope

Summary: In a world rife with conflict and discord, the quest for peace and hope can seem impossible. Yet, history has shown that profound transformation is possible, and it often begins with the power of collective action and systems thinking. We explore this here. Dear Dr. Sylvia, Shocked and saddened last week. My 19-year-old daughter…

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Game Theory and Conflict: Unraveling the Prisoner’s Dilemma

By Sylvia Lafair | October 25, 2023 | Comments Off on Game Theory and Conflict: Unraveling the Prisoner’s Dilemma

Summary: Game theory is a field in mathematics and economics. It has proven to be a valuable tool for understanding complex conflicts and strategic interactions. We apply “The Prisoner’s Dilemma” to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It sheds light on the challenges and potential solutions in this ongoing struggle for peace. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I know the…

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Vengeance Is Not a Strategy; Here’s What Makes a Difference

By Sylvia Lafair | October 23, 2023 | Comments Off on Vengeance Is Not a Strategy; Here’s What Makes a Difference

Summary: In the annals of history, countless tales of vengeance and retribution have captured our imagination. From ancient feuds to epic battles and cinematic showdowns, the desire for payback has always been a compelling human narrative. Here is what makes the real difference. Dear Dr. Sylvia, I was thinking about you today. I was thinking…

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Another graphic image with a lot happening

Why Psychological Safety Is Cost-Effective at Work

By Sylvia Lafair | June 14, 2023 | Comments Off on Why Psychological Safety Is Cost-Effective at Work

Summary: Most twenty-first-century workplaces are rife with negativity, tension, and conflict, with enormous costs ranging from decreased productivity to lawsuits. Here are some ideas on developing psychological safety and making positive cultural changes. Dear Dr. Sylvia, The complaining at work about too little time and too much to do is getting old. I have team…

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A road sign for stopping gun violence

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

By Sylvia Lafair | March 27, 2023 | Comments Off on The Cost of Gun Violence: Educators and Health Professionals Must Examine the Devastating Impact on Those Who Survive

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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A Lego boxing match

Here’s What It Takes To Become Conflict Competent

By Sylvia Lafair | March 1, 2023 | Comments Off on Here’s What It Takes To Become Conflict Competent

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

By Sylvia Lafair | February 22, 2023 | Comments Off on How to Banish the GOTCHA GAME at Work

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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Cartoon image of people talking to each other.

Here’s How Educators Can Stop Excessive Conflict in Schools

By Sylvia Lafair | February 20, 2023 | Comments Off on Here’s How Educators Can Stop Excessive Conflict in Schools

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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