People who grew up poor often display these 8 behaviors as adults

Growing up poor can shape a person in many ways.

It’s a hard truth that I’ve seen play out in my own life and in the lives of those around me.

It’s not just about the lack of money, though that’s a big part of it. It’s about the impact that scarcity can have on your mindset, your behaviors, and your decisions as an adult.

And yet, there’s something unique about people who’ve experienced this kind of upbringing. They often exhibit certain behaviors that set them apart.

Let’s dive into these 8 behaviors that are commonly seen in adults who grew up poor.

1) Frugality is a way of life

Growing up without a lot of money, you learn to make do with what you have.

You learn the value of every penny, and how to stretch it as far as it can go.

And even when circumstances change and financial stability comes, those lessons don’t just vanish.

They stay with us, ingrained in our behaviors and decisions.

This is why many people who grew up poor often display a high level of frugality as adults. Sale shopping, coupon clipping, and bargain hunting isn’t just about saving money. It’s about making the most of what you have.

It’s a behavior that speaks to a deeper understanding of the value of money – an understanding that was forged in the crucible of financial hardship.

2) They appreciate the little things

Growing up poor, I didn’t have many of the luxuries that some of my friends had.

But I learned early on to appreciate the small pleasures in life.

I remember how we used to gather around the radio as a family, listening to our favorite programs and laughing together.

It was a simple joy, but it meant the world to us because it was something we could share.

Even now, as an adult, I find myself cherishing those small moments of happiness. A quiet walk in the park, a good book, a hearty meal – these are things I deeply appreciate.

People who grew up poor often recognize the value in these simple pleasures. They have a knack for finding joy in the little things that others might take for granted. It’s a behavior that speaks volumes about their resilience and ability to find happiness, no matter their circumstances.

3) They’re often resourceful and innovative

When you grow up without a lot of resources, you learn to think outside the box.

You find new and creative ways to solve problems because you have to.

A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that children from low-income families were better at problem-solving and coming up with creative solutions than their wealthier peers.

This resourcefulness often carries into adulthood. People who grew up poor are often able to think on their feet, improvise in challenging situations, and come up with innovative solutions that others might not consider.

4) They value relationships over material possessions

When financial resources are limited, people often turn to their community for support.

Growing up poor, many learn that it’s the people in their lives, not the things they own, that truly matter.

This understanding often shapes their behavior as adults.

People who grew up poor are likely to place a high value on relationships and community.

They understand the importance of looking out for one another and often prioritize human connection above material gain.

This isn’t to say that they don’t aspire for financial stability or enjoy owning nice things. But they’re likely to measure their success more by the quality of their relationships than by the quantity of their possessions.

5) They understand the struggle and are often empathetic

There’s a certain type of understanding that comes from experiencing hardship firsthand.

It’s an understanding that can’t be taught, but must be lived.

People who grew up poor know what it’s like to struggle.

They know what it feels like to not have enough, to wonder where the next meal is coming from, or to go without necessities.

This experience often breeds a deep sense of empathy. They feel for others who are going through a tough time because they’ve been there before. They’re often the first ones to lend a helping hand, offer support, or just listen when someone needs to talk.

6) They tend to be hard workers

I remember the many times my parents would work late into the night, juggling multiple jobs just to make ends meet.

It was a tough way to grow up, but it instilled in me a strong work ethic.

People who have experienced poverty often become some of the hardest workers.

They understand the value of hard work and are not afraid to put in the extra effort.

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It’s not just about survival, though that’s certainly a part of it. It’s about striving for a better life, about pushing through obstacles and never giving up, no matter how tough things get.

This drive and determination often stay with them into adulthood, shaping their approach to work and their perseverance in the face of adversity.

7) They’re often more appreciative of success

When you’ve experienced the hardships of poverty, any form of success can carry a profound sense of accomplishment.

People who grew up poor often have a deeper appreciation for their achievements. They know the effort it took to get there, the obstacles they had to overcome, and the sacrifices they had to make.

This doesn’t mean they’re complacent. In fact, they’re often driven to continue striving for more.

But they also know the importance of pausing to appreciate the journey, to recognize how far they’ve come, and to savor the success they’ve achieved.

This sense of gratitude can lead to a more fulfilling life, marked not just by the pursuit of success, but by an appreciation for every step of the journey.

8) They are survivors

Above all, people who grew up poor are survivors.

They’ve faced some of life’s hardest challenges and they’ve come out the other side stronger for it.

They know how to adapt, how to persevere, and how to turn adversity into opportunity.

They possess a resilience that is born out of necessity and honed by experience.

This is perhaps the most important thing to understand about people who grew up poor.

They’re not victims of their circumstances, but products of their resilience. And that’s something truly admirable.

Final thought: It’s about resilience

At the core of these behaviors lies an attribute that is both powerful and inspiring: resilience.

Resilience is the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties, to adapt and keep moving forward in the face of adversity. It’s a quality that speaks to the strength of the human spirit.

For individuals who grew up poor, this resilience manifests in various ways, from their resourcefulness and hard work to their appreciation for small pleasures and deep empathy.

It’s important to remember that these behaviors are not shortcomings or weaknesses, but rather manifestations of strength and survival. They are testaments to the human capacity for adaptation and growth, even in the face of hardship.

As we reflect on these behaviors, let’s also reflect on our own resilience and the ways in which our experiences shape who we are, how we act, and how we perceive the world around us. Because in the end, it’s not just about where we’ve come from, but where we’re heading and how we choose to get there.

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Picture of Tina Fey

Tina Fey

I've ridden the rails, gone off track and lost my train of thought. I'm writing to try and find it again. Hope you enjoy the journey with me.

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