Mental Health

A great man once said that the best currency, the most valuable of all, is gratitude. I believe that the groundwork that’s been laid in the world of parking, the innovations that continue to develop, the people and mentors that have been beacons for others, make this industry a great place to work. Parking means more than just a place to park a car due to the passion and dedication of a good many folks. When our leaders have the vigor to see the industry succeed and continue to succeed for the vast network of folks who are affected by this industry, we are thankful we can also provide the same energy for the folks that we individually affect day to day. During times of challenges and new opportunities, gratitude can provide a sense of grounding, to help us relate to what may be unknown to us, to think outside ourselves. Often times we need this strength to be strong for others, even if we are not feeling that confident ourselves, that gratitude can establish as a tool in the box. Technology changes in the parking world can affect our strategy year to year and we need to continue to adapt with it. To remember this gratitude, this thankfulness of all those who helped us grow up to this point, we are better adept to provide the same leadership for the people who need a little help in the now. Adam Feller, PTMP, is an Operations Manager for LAZ Parking. Adam can be reached at Afeller@lazparking.com.

There has been some chatter amongst our San Francisco group recently related to what motivates and inspires us individually to show up, day in and day out, and do what we do. For some, an easy answer, for others a little self-reflection and introspection is needed to coax out a more developed response. One of the main responses, is to set an example – for one’s children or family, for the employees we lead. There is a sense that what we do is meaningful in that we can provide not only sustenance but also life guidance for those we love and support, to nurture the human kindness in others. That we can demonstrate peer to peer connection. For some, the acceptance of a certain role holds great responsibility, and we feel a duty to uphold the position in which we provide leadership. We want to see others succeed and we will do all in our power to support others in accomplishing shared goals, both large and small. Personal ambition and drive to find meaning in work and life is also a great motivator. Some folks are driven to complete any task at hand with energy and passion. Whatever the answer is, there is a basis to nurture and lead others as best as we can. Our goals often align and a group can thrive when we consider both personal and shared success as meaningful. Adam Feller, PTMP, is an Operations Manager for LAZ Parking. Adam can be reached at Afeller@lazparking.com.

We all want to be the best version of ourselves, but balancing family life and work commitments can make it feel impossible at times. Whether you're juggling meetings or making dinner, there’s always something pulling you in multiple directions. But here's the thing: Being your best self doesn't mean being perfect. It means showing up with energy, patience, and intention, both at work and at home. Prioritize Self-Care You can't pour from an empty cup. If you're running on empty, it's hard to give your best to anyone. Start by carving out time for yourself—even if it's just 10 minutes a day. Whether it’s a walk, reading, or simply sitting in silence, taking care of your mental and physical health recharges you, making you more present for your family and your work team. Set Boundaries It’s easy to blur the lines between work and home life, especially when you're constantly connected. But setting clear boundaries is essential. Try to stick to your work hours when possible and avoid bringing work stress home. When you're with your family, give them your full attention. They deserve it, and you’ll feel more connected to them. Communicate Openly Whether it's with your boss, your colleagues, or your family, communication is key. Be open about your needs, challenges, and what you need help with. A supportive work environment and a family that understands your goals make it easier to thrive in both areas. Embrace Imperfection You're never going to be 100% at everything. Some days, work will demand more, and other days, your family needs extra care. Embrace everything about life. Perfection is overrated—what matters is that you're showing up, giving your best, and trying to balance it all. At the end of the day, being your best self is about consistency, not perfection. Focus on small moments of growth and remember—you're doing better than you think. Tavris Parker, PTMP, is a Parking Operations Manager for the City of Virginia Beach. Tavris can be reached at TParker@vbgov.com.

In the workplace, it’s easy to get bogged down by challenges, deadlines, and pressure. But here’s a simple truth: a positive mindset can make all the difference in how you approach tasks and ultimately succeed. A Positive Mindset Matters A positive attitude isn’t just about feeling good—it’s about changing your perspective to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Whether you’re studying for exams or tackling a tough project at work, your mindset shapes how you respond to hardship. When you focus on solutions instead of problems, you’re more likely to find creative ways to overcome them. Benefits of a Positive Approach Increased Productivity: A positive mindset helps you stay motivated and focused, even when things get tough. It reduces stress and allows you to work more efficiently. Better Problem-Solving: When you approach challenges with optimism, you're more open to finding innovative solutions. Positivity encourages you to think outside the box, which is key to success in both academics and your career. Improved Relationships: Whether in a classroom or a meeting, a positive attitude provides better communication and collaboration. People are drawn to positivity. Resilience: Life is unpredictable—whether it’s a difficult assignment or an unexpected setback. A positive mindset builds resilience, helping you bounce back quicker and keep moving forward. Success doesn’t just come from hard work; it comes from how you approach the work. By choosing a positive mindset, you unlock greater potential in yourself and those around you. So, take a moment today to reset your mindset—your results will speak for themselves! Tavris Parker, CAPP, is a Parking Operations Manager for the City of Virginia Beach. Tavris can be reached at TParker@vbgov.com.

We all have that one thing that kickstarts our day—the equivalent of a cup of coffee (even if we don't drink it, “I do”). Whether it's a morning ritual, a music playlist, or a specific task that helps you feel energized, there’s always something that gets us out of bed and into work mode. In my office, the morning routine is crucial. Some reach for the classic caffeine fix, while others may choose something a little different. If you're not a coffee person, maybe it's a quick workout or a few minutes of meditation that gets your mind sharp. For others, it might be simply checking off a small task first thing, like sending an email or updating a to-do list, just to build momentum. There’s a lot of science behind the idea that starting your day with something positive can set the tone for the rest of it. Many studies suggests that the right morning habits can boost productivity, increase focus, and even reduce stress throughout the day. But let’s be real: it doesn’t always have to be productive. Maybe it’s something as simple as a few quiet minutes of stretching, enjoying a warm breakfast, or just sitting down to read the news for a bit before the chaos of the workday begins. The important part is finding that ritual that makes you feel ready to take on whatever’s ahead. So, what’s your "coffee"? Whether it’s a mental warm-up or something physical, finding your own version of a morning boost can be one of the best ways to fuel your day. Tavris Parker, CAPP, is a Parking Operations Manager for the City of Virginia Beach. Tavris can be reached at TParker@vbgov.com.

Clutter can create a chaotic environment that hampers focus and efficiency, leading to increased stress and decreased productivity. In fact, studies show that 80% of items people keep are never used, contributing to an overwhelming sense of clutter. Americans spend an average of 2.5 days each year searching for misplaced items, and 54% feel overwhelmed by their belongings. This clutter not only distracts but also costs Americans approximately $2.7 billion annually in replacing lost items. A clean and organized workspace, however, can transform your productivity. Research indicates that 78% of workers believe a tidy environment enhances focus, while 83% say it boosts creativity. Furthermore, a clutter-free space fosters a sense of calm, significantly reducing stress levels. To cultivate a decluttered environment, start by integrating small tasks into your daily schedule. Designate specific time slots for organizing and maintaining your workspace. Choose decluttering tools that fit your style—whether digital apps or physical organizers—and consistently apply them. Regularly evaluate your methods to ensure they’re effective. Promoting a culture of cleanliness is equally vital. Encourage daily tidying and set clear organization standards. Celebrate small victories to stay motivated. By scheduling regular decluttering sessions, implementing effective storage solutions, digitizing documents, and fostering a culture of organization, you can create a more efficient and serene workspace. Prioritizing cleanliness not only enhances productivity but also contributes to overall well-being. Start your decluttering journey today for a more focused and creative tomorrow! Lisa Copeland, CAPP, PMP, CUFM, is the Business Operations Manager for Old Dominion University. Lisa can be reached at lcopelan@odu.edu.

Jeri Baker, CAPP, Executive Account Manager of T2 Systems tells us the importance of acceptance and the comfort that comes from a safe environment.

This session will provide attendees with relevant and practical knowledge on how we approach the issue of mental health, why it is imperative to check in consistently, and what strategies can be employed to help address and mitigate issues that might negatively impact us both personally and professionally. 

Learn tips and tricks for interviewing within your organization to advance your career and set yourself on the path to career success!

Do you ever feel a constant war between the demands of work and home? If you do, you are not alone. Part of the problem is that technology has separated the boundaries between work and home. Employers expect their employees to be reachable outside of the office. With work happening more and more outside of the office, it is not easy to separate the two. The effects of burnout are real and impacts organizations, reducing employee productivity, and retention. There is no right way to address work-life balance for yourself. Each person is different and requires different ways to build a healthy balance. For me I try to prioritize wellness both mentally and physically. Each day I take a few moments to check in with myself and become aware of how I am feeling; improving my mental wellness. I make exercising, eating healthy, and getting enough sleep a priority. When you take care of your body, it takes care of you. One of the most important things, for me, is to take my PTO. There have been many years that I lost my PTO time due to me not taking it, and I felt the burnout. Taking time away from work is very important. Take the vacation! When your job takes more and more of your time and energy it can lead to burnout, and it is hard to find a way out. Finding a work-life balance might take some trial and error, but the reward will be incredible once you figure out what works for you. Varena Harding, CAPP, is a Project Manager for Central Parking Systems. Varena can be reached at vharding@municipalparking.com.

Like most of the world today, we are challenged to do our best to stay healthy and safe. Many people take special precautions through medicinal interventions, while supplementing their health with vitamins, a good healthy diet, and good old fashion exercise. These are great ways to stay and maintain your health, but I have recently discovered the fascinating world of Arts and Medicine. I never really thought about how positive and influential the arts could be on one’s health. After diving further into the topic, I learned that the world of the arts, whether that is dance, music, or painting, can have very therapeutic benefits. In fact, a number of different studies in the Journal of Psychiatric Intensive Care and Frontiers in Psychology have shown the benefits of simply looking at art. This has inspired some hospitals to add art to their rooms and doctors to prescribe non-medicinal artistic therapies. These unconventional therapies have proven to be very helpful for those with anxiety, stress, and mental health conditions. So as a friendly reminder be sure to wash your hands frequently, take your supplements, eat a healthy diet, take a daily walk, and take a trip to your local art museum or have a solo dance party to release those endorphins. Shontel Zamora, MPA, is a Budget Analyst for California State University at San Bernardino. Shontel can be reached at szamora@csusb.edu.

Suicide Mitigation on Parking Garages