20 Lessons Learned Over 20 Years

by Benj Miller | Feb 11, 2025

As we celebrate 20 years in business, I want to share 20 lessons that have defined this journey for me. Some were learned the hard way, others through the wisdom of those around me, but all have helped shape who I am and who Syrup is today.

Leadership

I suck at some things. Those are other people’s gifts to contribute if I let them. 

I contribute to every problem that exists. 

Investing in the lives of people is the most rewarding thing on the planet.

Trust and vulnerability are the grease that speeds the engine of business.

Lead with clarity, not certainty. People don’t need you to have all the answers, they need you to set direction.

Creative

Creativity thrives in constraints. 

Creativity loves process.

You can have a process for inspiration.  

Don’t use words when you can use a picture.

Simplicity wins.

Marketing

Focus on one product. To one target. With one message. Through one Channel.

Start with empathy.

Talk about the problem.

Emotion sells. Logic justifies.

Be human.

Business

Build for resiliency.

Learn from your clients.

Numbers tell the stories in business.

Have an operating system for your business (I’m biased).

Grow with intention, not impulse.

Two decades in business isn’t just about success—it’s about resilience, relationships, and continuous learning. The lessons I’ve shared aren’t just reflections; they’re guiding principles. If I’ve learned anything over these 20 years, it’s that growth never stops. Here’s to the next chapter, the challenges and opportunities ahead, and the people who make it all worthwhile.