Madelen and her husband Erik met in high school. What was initially Madelen’s goal eventually became Erik’s as well. Together, the couple began to embrace a more affordable lifestyle.
– We also treat ourselves and go on trips like other families, but we always have the financial mindset and check how we can get things the cheapest and the most value for the money we actually spend on it, says Madelen.
She points out that the couple has not had two full salaries as they have both studied for periods, been on parental leave and worked part-time.
– What has made us come here is that we have kept saving all along, says Madelen.
At times, the couple did not save more than a few hundred Norwegian kroner. But when wages gradually increased, so did savings. The couple has also saved parts of their money in mutual funds. But Madelen points out that it is money that they know they will not use until later in life.
“We treat ourselves too”
Streaming services, clothes, subscriptions: there’s a lot to save on. But you have to be prepared to opt out of a lot, says Madelen.
– Is it worth a coffee in town or do I want my dream? It has been full focus on the dream and everything else like small purchases, I have been able to completely refrain from that. Then we treat ourselves too, but then we do it deliberately. We don’t buy a pizza just because, but then we have chosen a specific restaurant that is cozy and such.
Madelen started her Instagram account in 2019 and today has around 30,000 followers.
See how Madelen saves at home – room by room – in the video.