7 things you’re doing in public that reveal you grew up middle-class

Growing up middle-class is an experience that often leaves a distinctive mark on us. It shapes our perspectives, our values, and yes, even our behaviors. And while you might not realize it, some of these middle-class mannerisms have stuck around, subtly revealing your roots whenever you’re out in public.

Now, you might be wondering, “What exactly are these revealing behaviors?” Well, brace yourself because we are about to delve into some uncharted territory here.

I’m going to share with you seven seemingly innocuous things you’re doing in public that are actually dead giveaways of your middle-class upbringing. These are those unconscious habits or quirks that you might not be aware of, but they speak volumes about where you come from.

Remember, this isn’t about stereotyping or making judgments. It’s about understanding how our backgrounds influence who we are and how we interact with the world around us.

I’m excited to share this journey with you. Let’s get started, shall we?

1) You’re conscious about not wasting food

Being middle-class often means understanding the value of resources. One of the most common ways this manifests is through a consciousness about wasting food.

If you grew up in a middle-class household, chances are, you were taught to finish what’s on your plate. You might find yourself doing this even when dining out, ensuring you eat all that you order or taking leftovers home.

This habit isn’t just about not being wasteful; it’s also about appreciating what you have. It’s a subtle nod to those middle-class roots, where every resource was valued and nothing was taken for granted.

2) You appreciate good deals and discounts

Middle-class upbringing often involves learning the art of budgeting and the joy of finding a good bargain. This isn’t about being cheap; it’s about being financially savvy and appreciating the value of hard-earned money.

Let me share a personal example here. Whenever I’m shopping, whether for groceries or for clothes, I find myself instinctively drawn to the sales section. I remember my mom, always on the hunt for the best deals, teaching me early on that it’s not about how much you spend, but how much you save.

So if you’re like me, frequently checking out sales or using discount codes, it could be an unconscious habit picked up from your middle-class background. It’s a trait that speaks of practicality and resourcefulness – qualities often nurtured in middle-class households.

3) You’re not overly showy with wealth

Growing up middle-class often means understanding that there’s much more to life than material possessions. It’s not that we don’t appreciate nice things, but we know they don’t define us.

Here’s the thing. When I get a bonus at work or come into some unexpected money, my first instinct isn’t to rush out and buy the latest designer bag or the newest tech gadget. Instead, I think about saving it, investing it, or using it for an experience like a trip or a concert.

This isn’t about denying ourselves luxuries; it’s about prioritizing what really matters. It’s about knowing that true wealth isn’t flaunted in public; it’s found in our experiences, relationships, and personal growth.

4) You tend to avoid unnecessary debt

One of the fundamental lessons often taught in middle-class households is the concept of living within one’s means. This includes being cautious about accruing unnecessary debt.

Now, this doesn’t mean that you are scared of credit cards or loans. Instead, it means that you understand the importance of managing them responsibly. You’re the type who’d rather save up for that new phone or vacation, instead of charging it to your credit card and worrying about the bills later.

This habit, deeply ingrained from your middle-class background, shows a healthy respect for money and a conscious effort to maintain financial stability. It’s about being smart with your money, not just for the sake of being frugal, but to ensure a secure future.

5) You value education

Middle-class families often put a high value on education. After all, it’s seen as the gateway to better opportunities and a more secure future.

Not surprisingly, a study by the U.S. Department of Education found that children from middle-class families are more likely to finish college and secure higher-paying jobs.

So, if you find yourself pursuing lifelong learning, whether it’s taking an online course, reading a lot, or simply having an insatiable curiosity—it could be a sign of your middle-class upbringing.

This appreciation for education isn’t just about getting a good job or making more money. It’s about the pursuit of knowledge and the belief that learning is a lifelong journey—a mindset often ingrained in those who grew up middle-class.

6) You’re conscious of social issues

Middle-class upbringing often fosters a strong sense of empathy and awareness towards societal issues. This is because growing up middle-class often means having a close-up view of the challenges faced by those both above and below your socio-economic status.

It’s common for people from middle-class backgrounds to be actively involved in community services, or simply being empathetic and conscious about the struggles of others.

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For example, if you find yourself regularly donating to charity, advocating for social causes, or even just being a good listener when someone shares their struggles — it’s likely that your middle-class upbringing has played a significant role in shaping these empathetic behaviors.

This isn’t just about being “woke”. This sense of social consciousness is rooted in the understanding that we all have a role to play in making the world a better place. And that’s something to be proud of.

7) You value relationships over status

Growing up middle-class often means learning early on that relationships and genuine connections are more important than status or wealth.

If you find yourself cherishing quality time spent with family and friends, and value the person over their job title or social standing, then your middle-class roots are showing.

This isn’t about dismissing ambition or success. It’s about understanding that at the end of the day, it’s the people in our lives who truly matter, not the size of our bank accounts or the prestige of our job titles.

This focus on relationships over status is perhaps one of the most telling, and indeed, most admirable traits of a middle-class upbringing.

Embracing your middle-class roots

If you find yourself nodding along to these signs, it’s a testament to your middle-class upbringing.

But here’s the thing – these habits and traits are not something to be embarrassed about. On the contrary, they’re a reflection of your values and perspective towards life.

While society often glamorizes wealth and status, remember that growing up middle-class has equipped you with invaluable life skills and a grounded mindset.

And that’s something truly worth celebrating. Your middle-class roots have shaped you into a resilient, empathetic, and conscientious individual. And these traits are not just signs of your past but also guideposts for your future.

Embrace your roots, cherish your journey, and continue moving forward with the wisdom gained from your middle-class upbringing. After all, it’s not just about where we come from; it’s about who we become because of it.