Apologize more often. It may seem difficult, but admitting mistakes and making amends strengthens your character and relationships. It’s a sign of growth and resilience.
As part of my series about “authors who are making an important social impact”, I had the pleasure of interviewing Daniela Jines.
Daniela Jines is a leading Organizational Happiness Expert who uniquely combines art with organizational development. Her innovative approach addresses work stress, anxiety, and suffering, creating environments where employees can flourish and find true happiness. Daniela’s methods are pioneering, making her a standout in her field.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Before we dive into the main focus of our interview, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your childhood backstory?
I came from a small, humble town in Bolivia, South America. In my community, going to school was seen as a special honor for girls, a rare opportunity in a place where such chances were often limited. Education was a precious gift, offering hope and the promise of a better future.
Life in my town was simple, and having a stable home and basic shelter were considered extraordinary privileges. Every day, we understood that these essentials were not to be taken for granted. They were symbols of our strength and resilience, inspiring us to appreciate every opportunity we had.
Growing up in this environment taught me to value and seize every chance that came my way. It showed me that even the smallest blessings could lead to great things and that every effort mattered in building a brighter future.
I come from a family deeply dedicated to serving others. My father, an economist, devoted his career to creating microeconomic plans aimed at improving the lives of underserved communities. His work focused on crafting practical solutions to lift people out of hardship. My mother, a social psychologist, worked tirelessly in shelters and with orphaned children, helping them find not just temporary support but a sense of stability and a place to call home.
Their commitment to making a difference profoundly shaped my values and outlook on life. Growing up surrounded by their selfless efforts, I learned the true meaning of compassion and the impact that one’s work can have on the lives of others. Their dedication was a constant reminder of the power of service and the importance of contributing to the well-being of those around us.
When you were younger, was there a book that you read that inspired you to take action or changed your life? Can you share a story about that?
My grandfather was a journalist with an insatiable love for reading. He would devour books whenever he could, making the most of every free moment. It was through him that I first encountered Khalil Gibran and his captivating book “The Madman” (1918). This collection of parables and poems, told through the voice of a so-called madman, explores the depths of life and the human experience with startling clarity.
Reading these stories with my grandfather opened my eyes to the richness of life and the beauty of simply being alive. They offered me profound insights into the human condition and sparked a deep sense of responsibility within me. His gift of these books was more than just an introduction to literature; it was a call to action, a reminder to cherish every moment and to find ways to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
It has been said that our mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?
From a young age, I found myself leading large groups of people within the government. At the time, I took on responsibilities that I wasn’t fully prepared for. My lack of experience and understanding led me to overlook the crucial importance of treating workers with kindness, love, and gratitude. I failed to recognize how vital these qualities are for creating a positive work environment and improving their lives. In hindsight, I realize I was far from the ideal boss, neglecting my team’s personal needs and failing to foster a supportive atmosphere.
It was through these challenging and often painful mistakes that I came to deeply understand the impact of leadership on employee well-being. This experience ignited a passion in me to explore the concept of happiness in the workplace. Driven by a desire to make amends and improve, I immersed myself in studying organizational happiness. Over time, this journey transformed me into an Organizational Happiness Expert.
Now, I dedicate my efforts to fostering environments where kindness and empathy are at the core, ensuring that employees not only thrive but also feel valued and appreciated. What began as a series of missteps has ultimately become a profound source of growth and purpose in my professional life.
Can you describe how you aim to make a significant social impact with your book?
My research into happiness spans over two decades, during which I have dedicated myself to understanding the essence of joy and fulfillment across the globe. In this extensive journey, I have immersed myself in over 33 distinct cultures, seeking to uncover whether there exists a universal truth about happiness that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries.
Through this exploration, I have discovered that while each individual and each culture has its unique sources of joy and specific desires that contribute to their happiness, there are fundamental commonalities shared by all. Regardless of background, people universally seek similar essentials: health, shelter, food on the table, and, most profoundly, the companionship of loved ones and the security of their well-being.
However, in our modern era, the quest for happiness often becomes overshadowed by increasing stress and anxiety in the workplace. The demands and pressures of contemporary work environments have led many individuals to experience profound dissatisfaction and misery. My research addresses this critical issue by providing practical, accessible solutions for both employers and employees. The aim is to alleviate the suffering caused by work-related stress and to foster a work environment that enhances overall well-being.
This research offers straightforward, actionable strategies that are both easy to implement and cost-effective. It is designed to help organizations create a more supportive and fulfilling workplace, where the pursuit of happiness is not a distant dream but a tangible reality. By addressing these challenges, my goal is to contribute to a world where happiness is within reach for everyone, and where people can thrive both personally and professionally.
Can you share with us the most interesting story that you shared in your book?
This research unveils a beautiful, practical, and entirely free recipe for achieving happiness, distilled into five simple but powerful actions. These “magic to-do lists” are designed to be easily applied in daily life, requiring nothing more than faith and discipline to see their transformative effects. Here are the five essential practices:
- Gratitude: Embrace the power of gratitude by focusing on what you already have rather than what you lack. By regularly acknowledging and appreciating the positives in your life, you shift your mindset and invite more joy and contentment.
- Forgiveness: Practice forgiveness as a profound way to free up mental and emotional space. Letting go of past hurts and resentments clears the way for new, uplifting emotions to enter your life, fostering a sense of peace and renewal.
- Acts of Service: Engage in acts of service, as giving to others is one of the most fulfilling ways to add purpose to your own life. Helping others not only benefits them but also enriches your own sense of well-being and satisfaction.
- Love: Embrace love as a powerful force that drives positive change and transformation. By prioritizing love in your relationships and interactions, you harness one of the most profound emotions that can uplift and guide your life.
- Exercise and Diet: Maintain a healthy body through regular exercise and balanced nutrition. Keeping your physical self in good shape is essential for sustaining your overall well-being and ensuring you have the energy and vitality to pursue your happiness.
These tips form a roadmap to a happier life, offering practical steps that are both accessible and effective. By incorporating these practices into your routine, you set the stage for a more fulfilling and joyful existence.
What was the “aha moment” or series of events that made you decide to bring your message to the greater world? Can you share a story about that?
During my research, I had the remarkable opportunity to collaborate with international indigenous communities in diverse locations such as Indonesia, Australia, and Argentina, as well as with high-profile CEOs in Spain, the US, and the United Nations. My work involved employing a unique model that utilizes art as a tool for fostering connections, facilitating negotiations, and building projects.
Working with these varied groups, I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of art in creating meaningful interactions and achieving successful outcomes. Whether engaging with indigenous communities or corporate leaders, art proved to be an invaluable medium for bridging cultural and professional divides. It enabled deeper understanding and collaboration, turning challenges into opportunities and enhancing the overall work environment.
This experience was a profound “Aha” moment for me, reinforcing the idea that art can transcend boundaries and enrich any setting. No matter where you are in the world, art has the potential to elevate work environments, foster creativity, and drive positive change. It demonstrated that integrating art into professional practices can unlock new possibilities and create a more engaging, dynamic, and harmonious workplace.
Without sharing specific names, can you tell us a story about a particular individual who was impacted or helped by your cause?
As part of my research, I had the privilege of leading the University of the Elderly in the government of La Paz. In this role, I guided over 3000 senior citizens in their quest to study, learn, and contribute their invaluable wisdom to the community. This experience stands out as one of the most profound and inspiring chapters of my life.
Witnessing these elderly individuals continue to pursue education and personal growth with such enthusiasm was nothing short of remarkable. Their unwavering desire to stay engaged, to learn, and to be of service to others provided me with an incredible sense of strength and motivation. It was a powerful reminder of the sacredness of life and the boundless potential for growth at any age.
Through observing their lives, I saw the practical application of the five magic practices I had researched. These seniors embodied gratitude, forgiveness, acts of service, love, and the importance of maintaining physical health. Their daily lives reflected these principles in action, demonstrating that these practices are not just theoretical but deeply transformative when lived out.
Their example reinforced my belief in the power of these practices and inspired me to continue promoting them. The experience with the University of the Elderly illuminated the extraordinary capacity for learning and contribution that exists within us all, regardless of age, and highlighted how living by these principles can enrich our lives and communities.
Are there three things the community/society/politicians can do to help you address the root of the problem you are trying to solve?
I truly believe that applying the five magic practices — gratitude, forgiveness, acts of service, love, and exercise — can serve as a powerful example for others. It might sound cliché, but the results speak for themselves. Many organizations and families that have adopted my model are already witnessing significant positive changes.
These practices are not only accessible and free, requiring nothing more than commitment and discipline, but they also bring about meaningful transformation. By incorporating these principles into daily life, individuals and groups can lead by example, demonstrating the profound impact of living with intention and care.
Seeing the tangible benefits of these practices in various settings reaffirms their effectiveness. They have proven to be simple yet transformative tools that foster a more positive and fulfilling environment, whether at work or at home. Embracing and modeling these practices can inspire others to follow suit, creating a ripple effect of positivity and well-being.
How do you define “Leadership”? Can you explain what you mean or give an example?
A true leader is someone who puts others first, embodying the essence of selflessness and dedication. They are the ones who eat last, who work tirelessly on their own growth and lead by example. Leadership is not about asserting authority, but about demonstrating the values you wish to see in others.
A leader stands out through their deep sense of gratitude, appreciating not only their own blessings but also recognizing and valuing the contributions of those around them. They forgive easily, understanding that holding onto grudges only hinders progress and harmony. They are constantly engaged in acts of service, finding fulfillment in helping others and contributing to the greater good.
Leaders are not afraid to show love and compassion, understanding that these qualities are powerful drivers of morale and connection. They lead with an open heart, creating an environment where empathy and kindness are the norms. They maintain an active lifestyle, not just physically but in their engagement with their team and their mission.
Ultimately, leaders are simply humans, but they are humans who embrace the joy of being alive. Their happiness is reflected in their actions and interactions, and it inspires those around them to pursue their own paths to fulfillment and purpose.
What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why? Please share a story or example for each.
- If you ever feel lost, engage in acts of service for others. It’s a surefire way to find direction and purpose. Helping others often brings clarity and a renewed sense of fulfillment.
- The best way to learn is through hands-on experience. While books are incredibly powerful, combining them with real-life action creates a winning formula for deeper understanding and mastery.
- The brain thrives on repetition. To make a habit stick, practice it consistently and repeatedly. Repeating an action helps solidify it into your routine and makes it a natural part of your life.
- Be kind to yourself. Your brain doesn’t respond well to punishment; it learns best through encouragement and self-compassion. Treat yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend.
- Apologize more often. It may seem difficult, but admitting mistakes and making amends strengthens your character and relationships. It’s a sign of growth and resilience.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
Giving is indeed one of the most profound ways to receive. Across all cultures known for their happiness, the practice of giving generously — whether it’s time, resources, or kindness — is a common thread. This selfless act not only enriches those who receive but also profoundly impacts the giver, fostering a deep sense of fulfillment and connection.
For me, giving has always been a cornerstone of feeling truly alive. It’s through acts of generosity that I’ve come to grasp many of life’s philosophical questions. The act of giving transcends material exchange, touching on deeper truths about our shared humanity and the essence of a meaningful life. It’s a practice that continually reaffirms the idea that what we contribute to others enriches our own lives in ways we might never fully measure, but always deeply feel.
Is there a person in the world, or in the US with whom you would like to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them. 🙂
Yes, Scott Cooney
Founder of CleanTechnica, he has created one of the world’s most influential and widely distributed sources of clean energy news. He works with companies in electric vehicle, solar, wind, geothermal, efficiency, biofuel, energy storage/battery tech, e-mobility, and urban planning. Through written, audio, video and other media, CleanTechnica helps facilitate connections for these companies that expedite the clean tech revolution, which is our stated mission.
How can our readers further follow your work online?
Follow me on LinkedIn or request a free training at : [email protected]
This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success on your great work!
Social Impact Authors: How & Why Author Daniela Jines Is Helping To Change Our World was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.