Twenty years. Two decades of building, learning, stretching, leading, and becoming. As I celebrate 20 years of 2Hill Consulting, I’m both grateful and grounded in what it has taken to get here. While statistics still remind us that many businesses don’t make it past their early years, I’ve learned that longevity isn’t just about survival—it’s about evolution. Starting a business, leading teams, navigating change, and staying aligned with purpose requires more than strategy…it requires intention. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: growth doesn’t happen by accident—we have to pause long enough to recognize it. So, in the spirit of reflection and celebration, I’m adding four more lessons to the sixteen that have guided me along the way.

I. Build with Purpose

1. Create a vision statement that reflects your purpose
Your vision should anchor you—especially when circumstances shift.

2. Set annual goals that align with that vision
Goals give your vision traction and translate intention into action.

3. Devise a strategic plan – have a destination and a purpose
A clear plan keeps you focused and prevents reactive decision-making.

4. Reset the vision as needed – leave room for evolution; be adaptable
Growth requires flexibility—what got you here won’t always take you there.

5. Pause. Pray. Pivot
Discernment in stillness often leads to your next best move.

II. Sustain Yourself for the Journey

6. Enjoy the wins when they come – use them to fuel your next steps
Celebration isn’t optional—it’s fuel for what comes next.

7. Don’t wait until you’re drowning to put on a life vest – get support while you can
Proactive support is strength, not a sign of struggle.

8.Don’t ask for permission, Queen yourself – put yourself and your care first
Own your authority and prioritize your wellbeing unapologetically.

9. Take a break – your wellbeing cannot be outsourced
Rest is your responsibility—no one else can do it for you.

10. Do more of what lights you up and less of what doesn’t
Energy is a signal—pay attention to what fuels and drains you.

III. Lead Through the Reality of Growth

11. Don’t give in to discouragement – you’ll hear many no’s on your way to yes
Rejection is part of the process, not the end of it.

12. You can handle more than you think
Capacity often reveals itself in the moments you’re stretched.

13. Change will happen, but not as fast as you would like
Patience and persistence are essential companions to progress.

14. Consistency is credibility – people trust what they can rely on
Trust is built in the follow-through, not just the intention.

15. Leverage your strengths—but don’t overuse them
Self-awareness is knowing both your strengths and their limits.

IV. Expand Your Impact and Legacy

16. Give generously (of your time, talents, and treasure)
Contribution creates meaning and multiplies impact.

17. Your message or lessons won’t resonate with everyone
Clarity comes when you focus on who you are meant to serve.

18. Pray without ceasing – over yourself, your family, business, community and career
Stay grounded in faith as you navigate every season.

19. Protect your energy like it’s a business asset—because it is
Your energy determines your effectiveness—guard it intentionally.

20. Your impact grows when you bring others along
Legacy is built not just in what you achieve, but in who you elevate.

As I reflect on these 20 lessons, I’m reminded that this journey has never been just about building a business—it’s been about becoming the leader I was called to be. It required me to anchor my foundation in purpose, to care for the leader within so I could continue to show up fully, to navigate the climb with resilience through every high and low, and ultimately, to lead beyond myself by creating impact that extends far beyond what I could do alone. Twenty years in, I’m still learning, still growing, and still committed to leading change…the Ms. Engineer Way®.