Chana Chiesa is a distinguished graduate of California State University, Long Beach, with a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development, graduating magna cum laude. She has been a prominent figure in academic research and community service, with significant contributions to projects aimed at improving child welfare and community health. She was recently honored with the Alice Hurst “Visionary” Award for her exceptional leadership, compassion, and academic excellence.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
My typical day starts early with a morning run to clear my mind and set a positive tone. I then review my schedule, prioritize tasks, and tackle the most important ones first. Staying organized and focused is key. I allocate specific times for meetings, research, and community service activities, ensuring I maintain a balance between my professional and personal commitments.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I bring ideas to life through collaboration and meticulous planning. Whether it’s a research project or a community initiative, I start by gathering a diverse team of stakeholders to brainstorm and refine the idea. We then create a detailed action plan with clear objectives, roles, and timelines. Regular check-ins and open communication help keep the project on track and adapt to any challenges that arise.
What’s one trend that excites you?
One trend that excites me is the increasing focus on mental health and wellness. There’s a growing recognition of its importance, not just in individuals but across communities. Integrating mental health support into child welfare programs and educational settings can have a profound impact on overall well-being.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
One habit that helps me be productive is maintaining a daily journal. I use it to jot down my thoughts, reflect on the day’s activities, and plan for the next. This practice helps me stay organized, prioritize tasks, and track my progress over time.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would tell my younger self to embrace failures as learning opportunities. Each setback is a chance to grow and improve. Don’t be afraid to take risks and pursue your passions, even if the path seems uncertain.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?
I believe that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness. Many people see vulnerability as a sign of weakness, but I see it as a powerful tool for building genuine connections and fostering resilience.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
I consistently practice active listening. Truly listening to others without interrupting or judging can transform relationships and enhance collaboration. I recommend everyone make an effort to listen more deeply in their daily interactions.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
When I feel overwhelmed or unfocused, I take a break and step outside. Nature has a calming effect on me, and a short walk can clear my mind and help me regain focus. I also practice mindfulness techniques to stay centered.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Building a strong network of mentors and peers has been invaluable. Seeking advice, feedback, and support from others has helped me navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Networking is not just about making connections but nurturing those relationships over time.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
Early in my career, I led a project that didn’t meet its objectives due to poor planning and lack of stakeholder engagement. I overcame it by taking responsibility, learning from the experience, and implementing better planning and communication strategies in future projects. The key lesson was the importance of thorough preparation and involving all relevant parties from the start.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
A business idea I’d like to share is creating a mobile app that connects volunteers with local community service opportunities. The app would use geo-location to match volunteers with nearby projects, making it easier for people to get involved and for organizations to find needed help.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
Trello is an indispensable tool for me. I use it to organize tasks, manage projects, and collaborate with team members. Its visual board format helps me keep track of progress and deadlines, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
One of my favorite books is “Daring Greatly” by Brené Brown. It offers profound insights into the power of vulnerability and courage, which resonate deeply with my personal and professional experiences. The book has influenced how I approach leadership and relationships.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
I recently enjoyed the series “This Is Us.” Its portrayal of complex family dynamics and personal growth is both touching and thought-provoking. The series underscores the importance of empathy and understanding in our relationships.
Key learnings
1. Embrace Vulnerability: Chana Chiesa emphasizes the strength found in vulnerability, advocating for its role in building genuine connections and resilience.
2. Active Listening: The practice of truly listening to others can transform relationships and enhance collaboration, a habit Chana consistently recommends.
3. Networking and Mentorship: Building and nurturing a strong network of mentors and peers has been crucial in Chana’s career, highlighting the value of seeking support and feedback.