People who grew up poor often display these 9 behaviors as adults

Growing up poor can significantly shape a person’s actions, attitudes, and behaviors in adulthood.

The difference is in the perspective. Growing up with little means often forces you to make the most out of whatever you have, creating habits that persist into adulthood.

As adults, these individuals may exhibit certain behaviors that reflect their humble beginnings. And it’s interesting to note that these behaviors are not necessarily negative – some are even admirable.

In this article, we’re going to explore the 9 behaviors often displayed by people who grew up poor.

Let’s get started.

1) Frugality is second nature

Growing up poor often translates into an adulthood of frugality.

People who grew up with limited resources typically develop a knack for making a dollar stretch. This isn’t just about clipping coupons or buying discounted goods. It’s about a deeper understanding of the value of money and the importance of saving.

You’ll find that these individuals are rarely impulsive buyers. They think carefully about their purchases, always weighing the cost against the benefit. This is not out of miserliness, but rather a result of their upbringing.

It’s not that they don’t enjoy the finer things in life. It’s more about appreciating what they have and not taking anything for granted.

2) They appreciate simple pleasures

A personal experience that I often reflect upon is how my childhood poverty instilled in me an appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.

Growing up, my family didn’t have much. Fancy vacations and expensive gadgets just weren’t part of our reality. Instead, we found joy in the little things – a homemade meal, a walk in the park, or a game of cards with the family.

This habit followed me into adulthood. I still find immense joy in these small moments. Reading a good book or spending time with loved ones brings me more happiness than any pricey commodity ever could.

One might argue that this is a result of my upbringing, where luxury was scarce and moments of happiness were often found in simplicity.

3) They are resourceful and creative

Growing up poor often means learning how to make do with what you have. This can lead to a level of resourcefulness and creativity that can be quite extraordinary.

A study conducted by the University of Illinois found that children who grew up in low-income households were likely to display a high level of creativity, particularly in problem-solving. They were more adept at coming up with multiple solutions to a problem and thinking outside the box.

This skill often carries over into adulthood. These individuals can find innovative solutions in situations where others might see only limitations. They can turn scarcity into opportunity, making them adept problem solvers and unique thinkers.

4) They value relationships over material possessions

People who grew up poor often understand the true value of relationships. When material possessions are scarce, human connections become the ultimate source of joy and comfort.

Their childhood experiences teach them that things can come and go, but good relationships are priceless and enduring. As a result, they tend to invest more time and energy into building and nurturing their relationships.

Instead of focusing on what they can gain materially from others, they’re more interested in emotional connection, mutual respect, and shared experiences. They understand that it’s the people in our lives that make us rich, not the things we possess.

5) They understand the importance of hard work

Hard work is a common theme in the lives of those who grew up poor. They’ve often seen their parents or guardians work tirelessly to make ends meet, instilling in them an appreciation for effort and diligence.

As adults, these individuals are not afraid of hard work. They understand that perseverance pays off and that nothing worthwhile comes easy. They’re often the first to arrive and the last to leave, always giving their best in whatever they do.

They also often display a high degree of resilience and grit, unafraid to face challenges head-on. This understanding of the value of hard work is deeply ingrained, making them dedicated workers and relentless pursuers of their goals.

When you see someone who is always willing to roll up their sleeves and get the job done, they may have grown up poor. And this trait, this tenacity, is something truly admirable.

6) They are empathetic and understanding

Growing up poor can heighten one’s sense of empathy and understanding. Experiencing hardship firsthand often makes these individuals more compassionate towards others who are facing difficulties.

They understand what it’s like to struggle, to go without, and to hope for better days. This understanding enables them to deeply empathize with others in similar situations.

In adulthood, they are often the ones lending an ear, offering a helping hand, or simply being there for those in need. Their past experiences have taught them the importance of kindness and understanding.

If you encounter someone who seems to have an innate capacity for empathy, they may well have grown up poor. This trait, this ability to connect with others on a deep emotional level, is truly heartwarming and a reflection of their strength and character.

7) They are resilient and adaptable

When I was a child, my family hit rock bottom financially. We lost our home and were forced to move multiple times. This was a challenging time, but it taught me the art of adapting to new situations.

Resilience and adaptability became my survival tools. No matter what life threw at me, I learned how to bounce back and adjust to new circumstances. It’s a skill that has served me well into adulthood.

People who grow up poor often develop this resilience out of necessity. They learn how to navigate through tough times, making them highly adaptable as adults.

8) They have a strong sense of gratitude

People who grew up poor often develop a profound sense of gratitude. When life’s luxuries are few and far between, even the smallest things can spark immense gratitude.

This means they don’t take things for granted. They appreciate what they have and express gratitude for it, whether it’s a stable job, a warm meal, or a kind gesture from a friend.

Gratitude isn’t just about saying ‘thank you.’ It’s about recognizing the value in every aspect of life, big or small. And it’s a powerful trait that can lead to increased happiness and satisfaction in life.

If you meet someone who is genuinely grateful for what they have, they might have grown up poor. This trait is more than just admirable – it’s something we can all strive to cultivate in our own lives.

9) They are determined to break the cycle

Perhaps the most defining trait of adults who grew up poor is their determination to break the cycle. They’ve experienced the hardships of poverty firsthand and are driven to create a better life for themselves and their families.

This determination can manifest in various ways – pursuing higher education, working multiple jobs, or starting their own business. Their past experiences have given them a unique drive and motivation to strive for more, to rise above their circumstances.

This determination is powerful and inspiring. It’s a testament to their strength and resilience, and it’s a reminder that our past does not have to dictate our future.

Final thoughts: It’s about resilience

The behaviors we have discussed, from frugality and resourcefulness to empathy and determination, are all manifestations of a resilient spirit. These are individuals who have faced adversity and not only survived but thrived, transforming their challenges into strengths.

The lessons they’ve learned from their tough beginnings aren’t just personal habits or quirks; they’re life skills that many of us could benefit from. They remind us of the importance of valuing relationships over possessions, of appreciating simple pleasures, and of the power of resilience.

These behaviors are not limitations or badges of hardship, but rather markers of strength and adaptability. They’re proof that our circumstances can shape us, but they don’t define us. And that’s something worth reflecting on.