For most people, Silje Sandmæl (46) has been the above-average sensible consumer economist who has often advised on how to best use our money.
Recently, she announced that she had quit her permanent job at DNB after many years of employment there – and that she would start on her own.
«Temu-opprør»: – A good time
Going to fight
These are not small things she plans to focus her efforts on going forward.
– Moving forward, I will fight for so much, for example: To get economics into schools, to advocate for people with payment problems, to give them a voice. Poor finances have significant health consequences as well, which are far too underrated. A help in itself is to look at what you actually have, not at everything you don’t have, and to take joy in that. Gratitude is a free happiness pill that actually works.
Sandmæl told this to Aftenposten.
Helping everyone
The great need to help has also been evident as a participant in one of this autumn’s big TV draws, “Vokteren” on TV 2. There, she helps her worst enemy reach the goal of climbing to the top of a mountain – before it dawned on her that not all participants had the same good intentions.
Perhaps her strong social conscience stems from her upbringing in very tight circumstances.
Taking action: – More harmonious without
Lived in poverty
To Aftenposten, Sandmæl also tells how she and her mother moved to Romsås in Oslo when she was young, living in poverty at that time.
– In the beginning, my mom couldn’t afford beds or a refrigerator. The neighbors helped us. Early on, I learned that you can experience a lot of beauty, regardless of your financial situation. I started working at 13, so I was probably a consumer economist long before I got my education and the title formally, Sandmæl tells Aftenposten.
This article was first published on KK.no.
What motivated Silje Sandmæl to focus on financial literacy in schools after leaving DNB?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Silje Sandmæl, Consumer Economist
Editor: Welcome, Silje! It’s a pleasure to have you with us today. Your recent announcement about leaving DNB to pursue your own initiatives has certainly grabbed attention. Can you share what motivated this significant change in your career?
Silje Sandmæl: Thank you for having me! The decision to leave DNB was not easy, but I realized that I wanted to make a larger impact in areas that I deeply care about, such as financial literacy and advocacy for those struggling with finances. I believed it was time to move beyond the corporate environment and directly engage with the community to make a real difference.
Editor: That’s inspiring! You mentioned focusing on getting economics into schools. Why do you think that’s important?
Silje Sandmæl: Financial literacy is crucial for everyone, and introducing economics into the school curriculum can empower the next generation to make informed financial decisions. I believe that understanding money management from an early age can prevent many issues down the line, such as debt and financial anxiety.
Editor: That leads to an important point you raised about the health consequences of poor finances. Could you elaborate on that?
Silje Sandmæl: Absolutely. Financial stress can have serious impacts on mental and physical health. Many individuals feel trapped in cycles of debt and anxiety, which can lead to various health issues, including depression and chronic stress. Addressing financial problems holistically—understanding what we have, appreciating it, and being grateful—can foster a better mental state and overall well-being.
Editor: Gratitude really does seem to be a theme in your approach. How do you suggest people can cultivate this mindset, especially when finances are tight?
Silje Sandmæl: It starts with shifting focus. Rather than fixating on what you don’t have or what you wish you could buy, take stock of your current resources and the joys they bring you. Even small things can lead to happiness if you appreciate them. It’s a simple mindset shift that can yield profound results in emotional well-being.
Editor: Moving onto your participation in the TV show ”Vokteren,” you’ve showcased your strong social conscience. Was there a specific moment on the show that left a lasting impact on you?
Silje Sandmæl: Yes, definitely! One significant moment was when I realized that not all participants shared the same intentions. It made me reflect on the importance of authenticity and integrity. My upbringing in challenging financial circumstances taught me the value of support and compassion, and I want to bring that perspective to everything I do.
Editor: It’s remarkable how your experiences shape your mission. What do you see as the biggest challenge in advocating for people with payment problems?
Silje Sandmæl: The biggest challenge is the stigma surrounding financial struggles. Many feel embarrassed or ashamed to seek help, which leads to isolation. I aim to provide a voice for these individuals, reinforcing that it’s okay to ask for help and that there are resources available to guide them toward better financial health.
Editor: Your mission is commendable, and it’s clear that you bring a wealth of knowledge and empathy to the table. As you embark on this new journey, what message do you hope to convey to your audience?
Silje Sandmæl: I want people to know that they are not alone in their financial struggles and that it’s possible to turn things around. Through education, support, and a change of mindset, anyone can improve their financial literacy and overall well-being. Change starts with one step, and I hope to inspire others to take that step.
Editor: Thank you, Silje. Your insights are invaluable, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of your new initiatives in the community.
Silje Sandmæl: Thank you! I appreciate the platform to share my thoughts, and I’m excited about what lies ahead.
