“Can you live without money?” 
German psychotherapist Heidemarie Schwermer conducted a bold experiment—she lived 20 years without money! 
It may sound unbelievable, but she managed to create something truly groundbreaking that still exists today. 
Curious to know how she did it? Read Heidemarie’s full story in the article below! 
Can someone truly survive in today’s world without financial resources? A German psychotherapist, Heidemarie Schwermer, set out to answer this question through a radical experiment that lasted two decades. Her journey serves as a testament to the idea that selflessness can have a powerful impact on the world.
At 47, Heidemarie had spent years supporting people through difficult life situations. With a deep sense of empathy, she worked to connect those in need with individuals willing to help.
In 1994, her efforts led to the creation of an initiative called “Give and Take.” This unique program was based on the exchange of goods and services, eliminating money as the usual middleman. Participants could simply display a program sticker on their door, car, or backpack to signal their willingness to share and contribute. It attracted not only those struggling financially but also retirees, isolated individuals, and others seeking a sense of community. In return for small tasks or by offering their skills, participants could secure food, shelter, or essential items.
A few years later, Heidemarie’s own life underwent a transformation. Her children became independent, and her marriage ended. Perhaps these personal changes inspired her to take a drastic step—at the age of 53, she embarked on an extraordinary experiment: living entirely without money for a year. This meant she had to forgo paying rent, purchasing food, or buying clothes, relying instead on the principles of the “Give and Take” program.
Leaving behind her former lifestyle, she set off with just a small suitcase and 200 euros. Adjusting to this new reality was challenging at first, as it was vastly different from the comfort she had known. Since professional therapy services were rarely needed in exchange, she had to find alternative ways to secure necessities.
She took up window cleaning, lawn mowing, dishwashing, and working as a governess. Some people simply needed companionship, and she offered her presence. To her surprise, she discovered that this way of life suited her perfectly. She felt a profound sense of freedom, never once needing to use her small cash reserve.
After the one-year experiment ended, Heidemarie chose not to return to her old way of living. Instead, her philosophy attracted the attention of the media. She gave lectures, wrote a book titled The Money-Free Experiment: My Life Without Money, and became the subject of a documentary. The proceeds from her work were donated to charity.
Not everyone could embrace Heidemarie’s way of life, but her message—that happiness is not tied to money—left a lasting impression. Though she is no longer here, the “Give and Take” initiative continues, along with the many people inspired by her remarkable journey of selflessness.
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