Today we’d like to introduce you to Brigitta Dau, Certified Life Coach and Certified Pilates Instructor.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My story is not your typical one. I was originally a professional actress. I started in Vancouver, Canada, and starred on a series up there for four years. I also guest starred on many of the American show filmed up there at the time. Eventually, I had to move on and chose LA to be my next home. After getting my green card (which is an epic ordeal!), I worked here in LA for another ten years or so co-starring in many TVMovies, indie films, and episodic television.
I absolutely loved acting and the people I met through doing the work. One of the things I loved the most about acting was the connections you make when you are “in the moment” and filming a scene. One day I realized that I didn’t have to wait for auditions or book jobs to feel that way. I could make a contribution and be more in charge of my life rather than waiting for the phone to ring. So, after some soul searching, I started teaching Pilates about 15 years ago. I was never an exercise enthusiast but Pilates felt different to me. I really loved how my body felt while practicing Pilates and decided to get certified and pursue it full time. I have worked with Physical therapists doing clinical Pilates, as well as taught mat classes at various gyms including Sports Club LA and Equinox. I also (until Covid) have taught at various boutique studios and still have a studio in my home.
Since the pandemic, I now offer mat Pilates classes over Zoom. The Life Coaching was a natural progression for me to offer more support in a variety of ways. I got certified ten years ago and have worked with hundreds of people of all ages and careers. I started working with people one on one and in small groups (group coaching). I soon added on-line coaching (my 1st Life Coach was in Australia so I was comfortable with working on-line!) And, since the pandemic, I’ve coached online exclusively. I offer group workshops, ongoing group coaching, and one on one sessions over Zoom. I also wrote a book last year, “Crafting a Better Life – creative approaches to personal growth” which is available on kindle and at Amazon.com. The book was fun and challenging and I learned a ton through the process…all of which helps me be a better coach!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Well, getting a green card is epic! And when I went through the process, there was no internet…so I had to ask for PR people to send me press clippings by snail mail. And because the show that I was starring in was international, that meant long distance phone calls! I also had to ask for letters of recommendation, etc. It was daunting but it taught me a lot…”success leaves clues”. A great exercise I give my clients is for them to write out a success from their past…something they thought they couldn’t pull off, but somehow did. Those past successes are a goldmine of positive mindsets, strategies for overcoming setbacks, creating empowering beliefs, finding courage, etc. More recently, I was hit hard with the pandemic. I lost my entire Pilates Business in March when California shut down. It was devastating to lose those communities and friendships. But, it pushed me to get creative and figure out how to utilize my on-line skills to create fun yet safe workouts virtually. I’ve actually really enjoyed this new phase of teaching Pilates. And, the pandemic lit a fire under my butt to offer more coaching on-line which was a positive outcome from this devastating virus.
Alright – so let’s talk business. What else should we know about you and your career so far?
I’m now working entirely on-line. As a Life Coach I offer one on one sessions, ongoing group coaching, workshops on various topics such as self-sabotage, breaking bad habits, etc. I have also written a book, “Crafting a Better Life” which has a lot of great info and exercises for people to try on their own. It also has fun crafts that correlate to each chapter which are meant to be fun and create the space for a little more play in people’s days. I think what sets me apart is my experience. Again, having worked professionally in the film industry in two countries, I worked with a LOT of people. And with Pilates, I’ve worked with people anywhere from the severely injured to professional athletes (and those of us in between.) I also love the coaching process and work consistently with coaches myself so I can offer the best support for my clients.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
Luck was a huge part of my acting career. Yes, talent matters but you also need to have luck on your side. But, I also believe you create your luck. You create luck by being prepared, acting as if you knew you couldn’t fail, rolling up your sleeves and doing the work. That is true for all careers. I’ve had clients “bump” into literary agents in elevators and gone on to get representation because they HAD ALREADY WRITTEN THE SCRIPT when asked about their work. Putting in the work (rather than waiting for the work) opens you up to synchronicity. Then, when the opportunity presents itself, you’re ready. That’s how you make your own luck.
Pricing:
- Private Coaching Session (One on One) $75
Contact Info:
- Website: Brigittadau.com
- Phone: 310-529-0492
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: collywobblecounty.brigittad
- Facebook: Brigitta Dau
- Twitter: Brigittadau
Image Credit:
Collette Blonigan
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