My 20K Bonus: A Survivor’s Attitude on Life and Purpose

I have an attitude — several of them actually. You see, I am a cancer survivor and, as such, I have a number of attitudes about life.

First, there is a sense of luck, in that I escaped from a bad situation. If not for my mom noticing a lump on the side of my chest, perhaps the cancer would have gotten much worse with a terrible outcome. Instead, it was taken care of through 5 operations spread across 3 months, and I am still around. I averted a life-ending head-on collision. It’s almost like winning the lottery without the big bag of cash. Being that my cancer diagnosis and surgeries happened over 60 years ago, the 20,000 days of living feels like my 20K bonus. Instead of being the recipient of $20,000, I have been given a much better gift — the gift of life!

Another perspective I have is that I am living a life of gratitude. While it is easy to take many things for granted, it is healthy to step back and be grateful for the many great things in our lives. The list is long — our families, our profession, the place where we live, continued health, amazing food, our network of friends and yes, having some money in the bank. Although it is impossible to thank everyone for the gifts we have been given, living a life of gratitude sends a universal message.

Obligation

While there is no rule that says that you owe anyone anything after surviving cancer, it sure feels right to pay society back for being allowed to remain in the club. Maybe that means reaching out to other cancer patients and giving them hope that they will have their long-term bonus. You don’t have to look too far to find someone who can use a helping hand. Why not yours?

Appreciation

This is a first cousin of gratitude. Appreciation enables us to have a broad recognition of the many things that enter our lives. Your elderly neighbor who likes to tell stories about the old days may share some wisdom that you benefit from later in life. The people at work who speak a different language may introduce you to some wonderful new food that you didn’t know about. The teacher at school who can share more about life lessons than the subject that she teaches. Appreciation recognizes everyone’s right to greatness. It takes over once you open your mind to the many things around you. It lets in the possibility that things that enter your life may not just be a coincidence—they may be part of a bigger plan.

Urgency

Surviving cancer or any other life-threatening event shows us how limited our lives are—and how important it is to address our most important goals. In fact, we need to turn our Gottas into Goals. There’s no reason to put off working on our key aspirations. What was maybe planned for next year gets pulled forward to this year. For example, the dream of being a piano player becomes reality once you sign up for lessons. Finishing our college degree is in sight once we register for classes this semester. Taking the first step toward your goal validates how serious you are about it.

Purpose

So, why were we spared and allowed to continue living? In the big picture, what really is our purpose in life? Is it to be someone with the most money? The biggest job title? A famous celebrity? Or maybe to be someone who is helpful and sets a good example for those around us. The opportunities to make other people’s lives better are endless. Our actions need to support our purpose, whatever we think it is.

Implementation

So what should we do with our bonuses? The choices are similar to what you would do with a monetary bonus. You can save it, share it, invest it, and you can even waste it.

If you save it, you can just be content in knowing that you have been given a gift.

If you share it, you may reach out to others who are struggling with health problems of their own and provide inspiration and hope.

Investing your bonus may pay huge dividends in accomplishing a big dream of yours. The possibilities are endless.

It’s not a fun thought, but some people may actually waste their bonus—by not realizing how fortunate they are, while not making the world around them better — and taking their second chance for granted.

Come to think of it, you can have these attitudes without a life-threatening situation. All you have to do is make your mind up to live life with these and other positive attitudes that the world can enjoy!

FAQ

What is the “20K Bonus” concept?

It refers to the 20,000+ extra days Marty Jindra has lived since surviving cancer as a child. Rather than a cash windfall, it represents the priceless gift of time and purpose.

How does surviving cancer influence Marty Jindra’s message?

It instills themes of gratitude, urgency, appreciation, and obligation. Marty encourages audiences to make the most of their “bonus time” by acting on their purpose and helping others.

Is this message only relevant for cancer survivors?

No. While rooted in Marty’s personal experience, the message applies to anyone seeking to live more intentionally, with meaning and contribution, regardless of past adversity.

What actions does Marty recommend we take with our bonus?

Just like a financial bonus, he suggests we can save it, invest it, share it, or—unfortunately—waste it. The key is to use our time and life experiences to benefit others and pursue meaningful goals.

Where can I learn more about Marty Jindra’s work?

Visit martyjindra.com to explore keynote topics, availability, and resources.