He is called Sweden’s stingiest man, but is practically financially independent.
Savings expert Günther Mårder has more than 300 tips to share when it comes to financial savings.
– More people should be able to afford to realize their really big dreams, says savings expert Günther Mårder in Efter fem.
It all started with him selling hot juice to thirsty skaters on the ice at home in Sollentunna. At the time, Günther Mårder was ten years old. Four years later he bought his first stock and when he was seventeen he made his first million.
Today, the savings expert is known as Sweden’s stingiest millionaire as he uses extreme methods to reduce expenses. For example, he has eaten his colleagues’ leftovers after they finished eating in the lunchroom, or let the children stand in line for the toilet so that they only have to flush once.
– I hate to see food thrown away and perish. A third of the food we bring home is thrown away. And then we haven’t talked about the waste that exists in the store and in the production stage. Every saved food that we can save will be good for both the wallet and the environment, says Günther Mårder in Efter fem.
It’s all about habits
Being both a family man and prioritizing finances can have its challenges. But the savings expert believes that it’s all about making the children understand the value of the gadgets they want.
He believes that it is rarely necessary to have the latest model of a mobile phone. Instead, you should calculate how much each gadget costs per day, to get perspective on your purchases.
– By doing it this way, we will also buy more quality. Because then we realize that quality pays off. Because then there is also a good residual value if we sell on, he advises.
Furthermore, Mårder believes that children are very adaptable. The important thing is to have the discussion and become aware of your purchases. Today, people are used to consumption trends.
– Just like we got used to getting those kicks, we can get used to them. But it takes time. Sometimes it takes up to 90 days to establish a new habit if it is complicated or difficult, he explains.
Invest in your dreams
But according to the savings expert, life should not only be about money. Mårder explains that he does not let the economy rule his life, but on the contrary, he lets life rule his finances.
– I have to say that I have enormous respect for the people who are forced to live under tight financial conditions and work hard to save just to make ends meet, he points out and continues:
– Everyone must start from themselves. What do you dream about? Get the financial conditions to get there.