From Parenting to Parking Lots: How My Past Shaped My Business

The skills I developed through parenting, teaching, and personal training—discipline, communication, and problem-solving—have seamlessly prepared me for owning and running a successful parking lot striping business.

📖 2 min read

By Lisa Strickland | 2025-03-15

#Parking Lot Striping#Teaching#Parenting

From Parenting to Parking Lots: How My Past Shaped My Business

Starting a parking lot striping business might seem like a big leap from being a mother, teacher, and personal trainer, but in reality, every chapter of my life has prepared me for this. Parenthood, teaching, and training all taught me discipline, patience, and the importance of clear communication—skills that are just as crucial in business ownership.

1. Parenting: Managing Chaos and Problem-Solving

Being a parent means handling unpredictable situations daily. From calming tantrums to juggling schedules, you learn to think on your feet and adapt quickly. Owning a business is no different. Unexpected weather delays, last-minute client changes, or equipment malfunctions require the same level of patience and problem-solving that parenting instilled in me. Plus, just like with kids, setting expectations and following through is key to keeping clients happy.

2. Teaching: Communication and Leadership

Teaching is all about breaking down complex ideas into simple, understandable steps—exactly what I do when training employees or explaining a project to a client. As a teacher, I learned how to motivate others, keep people accountable, and ensure tasks were completed efficiently. These leadership skills directly translate to running a team in my business. I know how to guide people, give constructive feedback, and set a standard of excellence.

3. Personal Training: Discipline and Attention to Detail

As a personal trainer, I coached people toward their goals, emphasizing consistency and precision. Those same principles apply to my business. Precision in parking lot striping is everything—lines need to be straight, measurements exact, and the final product both functional and visually appealing. Just like in fitness, results come from preparation, repetition, and maintaining high standards.

Bringing It All Together

Owning a business means wearing many hats—manager, problem-solver, mentor, and strategist. My past experiences gave me the foundation to handle challenges, stay organized, and lead with confidence. Whether it’s raising children, shaping young minds, or coaching clients, every role prepared me for this journey.


Lisa Strickland

Lisa Strickland

Former mother, teacher, and personal trainer who now owns a parking lot striping business.