Minister of Happiness working for a more humane future
Gina Schöler works as a minister of happiness throughout Germany and provides impetus for greater mental well-being. In an interview with the SAQ Swiss Association for Quality, she talks about humanity, the power of small impulses and the magic of everyday life.
Gina Schöler, on a scale of 1 to 10, how happy are you at the moment?
My happiness is currently around 6.8. Between family, work and personal development, there is a lot that is fulfilling, but also challenging. My husband and I consciously make time for honest conversations. That gives us stability. Professionally, I'm looking forward to projects such as the new edition of my book and a school program for team building. Topics such as my parents' health and my wanderlust also keep me busy. I enjoy the highs and can withstand the lows.
What prompted you personally to set up the Ministry of Happiness and Wellbeing?
The idea was born in 2012 as part of my Master's degree in response to the question of how communication can initiate social change. It became a matter close to my heart. I wanted to use my creativity and my enjoyment of interacting with people for something meaningful.
Are people happier today than when the Ministry of Happiness was founded 14 years ago?
The world today is faster, more complex and more stressful than it was back then. Many people are mentally exhausted, but awareness of mental well-being is growing. I am concerned about the mental health of children and young people. There is a lack of clear political responses.
How do you deal with your public role when you yourself are less happy?
Authenticity is important to me. I don't pretend anything and I also own up to difficult moments. Openness creates trust, closeness and genuine connection. Whether in a workshop or on stage, I share my experiences and don't take myself too seriously.
What is the biggest obstacle to personal happiness in everyday life?
In the fast pace of life, many people lose sight of what really matters and only function instead of feeling. Perfectionism, constant comparison and pressure to perform stand in the way of happiness. Those who don't know themselves, who don't know what is good or missing, often remain empty inside. And where there are no real connections, there is also no sense of belonging.
Was there an encounter or a moment in your work that particularly shaped your view of happiness?
There have been many encounters that have had a profound impact on me. Happiness manifests itself individually and often in small moments. A burnt-out mother seeking help after my presentation. A manager who cries movedly in front of an audience. Or getting to know people from Bhutan who are convinced they are working towards Gross National Happiness. Experiences like these give my work depth and meaning.
What does quality mean to you personally, beyond standards and key figures?
For me, quality means that something is genuine and lasts. Something that you can rely on, that fits individually and is not interchangeable. For me, quality is reflected in authenticity.
This year's slogan for Swiss Quality Day is «Quality for the future: sustainable. digital. human.». What significance does the topic of happiness have in this context?
Happiness is a central component of quality for the future. It starts with becoming aware of your own values and using your own talents in a meaningful way. This creates impact in both personal and professional life. Genuine humanity is the basis for all of this. It manifests itself in cooperation, openness, goodwill, transparency and cohesion.
What else would you like to achieve socially with the Ministry of Happiness and Wellbeing in the coming years?
I want to anchor the topic of happiness even more firmly in education and the world of work. A new school format on team building and tolerance is due to start in 2026. I also want to create spaces for inspiration, networking and reflection in discussions with managers. Happiness is not a minor matter, but a central foundation for our society.
What is particularly important to you during your appearance on Swiss Quality Day 2026?
It is important to me to touch people and make them think. They should not just listen, but experience, be amazed and take something away with them. Emotion and interaction create moments that last. And above all, I want to show that everyone can make a difference.
Finally, what gives you strength and confidence for the future at the moment?
My gut feeling and my drive give me strength. They have often helped me move forward. My children's zest for life is infectious. I find support in my family, friendships, colleagues and a great community. I also draw confidence from the next generation and their ideas for a good life. n
About the person
With her «Ministry for Happiness and Wellbeing», Gina Schöler has been bringing topics such as happiness, contentment and mental health to companies, ministries and stages in a creative and everyday way for 14 years. Her aim is to strengthen gross national happiness and help shape social change.
Swiss Quality Day 2026
Gina Schöler will be performing at the Swiss Quality Day in Bern on April 21, 2026. The motto of this year's event is „Quality for the future: Sustainable. Digital. human.“ Further information and registration: www.tsq.swiss
