Lessons learned from my pet Tortoise

Tortoises are intelligent but not overly so (similar to a white lab rat) but they have certain qualities that make them resilient, sturdy and likely to outlive most humans. Some of their traits are quite enviable and would be admired in the business world.

Slow Down - Certain things you just can't rush. Try getting a 26kg tortoise to do anything quickly and you will understand. I learned that I had to better manage my time and plan accordingly. Slowing down does have its advantages. Rushing an important business decision for example, can often lead to a bad outcome.

Determination - If a tortoise desires to go somewhere, he will not give up. It could be a brick wall but if he wants to go through it, he will try and keep trying.

Defense can be a good offense - Remember Muhammad Ali and the rope-a-dope? (a boxing tactic of pretending to be trapped against the ropes, goading an opponent to throw tiring ineffective punches) Tortoises have limited offence. They can hide in their shell and play defense for quite a long time. Patience is valuable and can sometimes preserve your life.

Live a simple, healthy lifestyle - Bert has a routine. He lives by it and therefore has very little stress. He eats, poops and walks (he can't run or swim). That's pretty much it. He wakes up at 6am and is asleep by 6pm. Every day. I am jealous.