# Near Death Experience Changed Business Approach

> A near-death experience led to prioritizing time over cash bonuses in business.
- Title: Near Death Experience Changed Business Approach | Shortify
- Summary: A near-death experience led to prioritizing time over cash bonuses in business. A businessman changed his company's approach to bonuses after a near-death…
- Keywords: skip van gardner, near death experience, time bonus, office space, seattle, nfl, Near, Death, Experience, Changed, Business, Approach
- Source: Wellbeing Magazine — https://wellbeingmagazine.com/should-a-bonus-be-time-or-cash-how-a-near-death-experience-changed-my-approach-to-business
- Author: Editorial Team
- Published: 2026-10-01T12:52:36+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: skip van gardner, near death experience, time bonus, office space, seattle, nfl
## Near Death Experience
A near death experience changed my business priorities and how I hear others.
## Summer 2025 Storm
In summer 2025, my friend and I were thirty miles west of the Bahama Banks in three thousand feet of water when we entered a rogue double squall line.
## Two Hours of Storm
We were beaten for over two hours as the boat fell apart with one short break between storms.
## Goodbye to Each Other
We said goodbye and called it an honor to be there that day because neither of us wanted anyone else there or to go through that hell.
## Time Awareness Grew
Since surviving, my awareness and appreciation for time has grown significantly.
## CFO's Time Priority
A CFO turned down two high-paying jobs to prioritize time with his family.
## Time Over Money
The CFO said time is more important than cash for him and his wife at this stage of life.
## Open Time Policy
The company allows flexible time for employees to enjoy personal moments without penalty.
## Small Office Success
The small office under 20 people has seen both young and older employees stay with the company.
## Key takeaway

A businessman changed his company's approach to bonuses after a near-death experience, valuing time with employees over financial rewards.