We recently connected with Kat Dworschak and have shared our conversation below.
Kat, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
I found my purpose when I finally slowed down, focused on what is important, and listened to the needs of friends and family. After 20+ years of crafting my dance skills and working in different professional settings, I knew I needed to create a path of fulfillment utilizing everything I had learned. During covid I was forced to slow down and during that time I learned how much the community was suffering from the lack of socializing and the lack of movement/exercise. Through conversation I also learned that it’s common for adults to lose the confidence and self esteem they once had after they stopped working towards something like high school and college. After listening to my community of people who needed exercise, socialization, and ways to improve self esteem and confidence, I knew I had to key to all of those needs, dance. That is when I began hosting adult dance classes in Winona, MN. Once I started teaching participants would later tell me how much the classes have improved their mental and physical health. I got to hear each individual story about the impact the classes have made in their lives. I was able to see growth with in each person who came and took class. All of these beautiful things I witnessed in others all while I could do what I love, dance. It gives me an overwhelming feeling of joy and gratification. I feel fulfilled.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’ve carefully created a world for myself where my focus is movement and sharing the impact with others. I own a dance company, I dance professionally on stages and arenas, and I’m a personal trainer. I love having a life full of educating others while still working on my own craft and performing.
I’m really excited for my company to have a 5th year of dance. My goal is always to create a greater impact. Whether that means serving a greater amount of people or providing more for those who already attend.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
One skill that really pushed my career forward is the ability to create an energetic space for others to step into. I think with dance and exercise there’s a level of excitement and adrenaline that makes it more engaging and enjoyable. I’ve learned how to set the tone before anyone arrives so everyone can feel it when they get there.
Another skill that I benefit from is my ability to listen to understand. I am able to serve my students in the ways they need as individuals because I open up communication so I can understand what they need in the moment. That really fulfills me.
Lastly and maybe the most important skill is my dance training that I continue to do. I still take classes, I fly to Los Angeles quarterly to focus on taking dance classes. It keeps me polished, and up to date on all things dance. I’m still learning after 20 years and I love to learn. I think it’s important to keep sharpening my dance skills.
Tell us what your ideal client would be like?
My ideal client is someone who is open to try without worrying about how they look. In both my businesses, it can be vulnerable for clients to move their body in a new way in front of others. Learning how to workout in a gym or learn dance choreography in a class requires moving through uncomfortable spaces sometimes. You have to be okay with not having it perfect at first but willing to keep trying until you get it. The aspect of others seeing the journey is another layer of difficulty. It’s not like other projects where people only see the final product. In these spaces of dance and exercise, others witness the process too, so having a client who is willing to go through those stages is ideal.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.underthebridgewinona.com
- Instagram: @underthebridgewinona
- Facebook: Under the bridge Winona
Image Credits
Katie Wangen
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