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

Growing up poor isn’t just about a lack of money. It’s an experience that can shape the way you think, act and make decisions as an adult.

It’s amazing how our childhood experiences can deeply impact our adult lives. Poverty is no different. It can leave a mark that lasts a lifetime, influencing behaviors and attitudes long after the situation has changed.

Those who’ve risen from such backgrounds often carry certain habits and behaviors into adulthood. These aren’t necessarily bad things; in fact, many of these behaviors are signs of resilience, creativity, and determination.

Here, we’ll explore 9 behaviors often displayed by adults who grew up poor. Whether you recognize these in yourself or others, understanding them can foster empathy and insight.

1) They value experiences over possessions

Growing up poor can instill a unique perspective on the value of things.

For those who grew up with less, the focus is often more on experiences than material possessions. This isn’t to say that they don’t appreciate or enjoy owning nice things. It’s more about their understanding of the ephemeral nature of possessions and a deeper appreciation for experiences that create lasting memories.

They know that experiences, not things, are what truly enrich life. This might be because when money was tight, family outings or shared experiences were the things that brought joy and happiness.

So don’t be surprised if you find them investing in travel, education, or simply spending quality time with loved ones rather than splurging on the latest gadget or luxury item.

This mindset can lead to a richer, more fulfilled life – something that no amount of money can buy.

2) They are resourceful

Growing up poor often means learning to make the most of what you have. This includes being creative with resources, finding multiple uses for a single item, and figuring out how to ‘make do’ when necessary.

I remember growing up in a household where money was always tight. We couldn’t afford to replace things at the drop of a hat, so we had to be inventive. If something broke, we’d find a way to fix it. If we needed something we didn’t have, we’d improvise.

A great example of this was when I wanted to play hockey but couldn’t afford the expensive gear. Instead of giving up, I used my old roller-blades and a makeshift stick until I could save enough money for a secondhand kit. My resourcefulness not only allowed me to play the sport I loved but also taught me the value of resilience and adaptability.

These experiences fostered a sense of resourcefulness in me that has served me well into adulthood. It’s not just about saving money; it’s about problem-solving and making the most out of every situation.

3) They tend to be more empathetic

Growing up poor can expose you to certain hardships and struggles that others may not experience. This can often lead to a greater sense of empathy in adulthood.

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It’s about putting yourself in someone else’s shoes and feeling their pain or happiness as if it were your own.

Studies have shown that people who have faced adversity in their childhood, such as economic hardship, are more likely to be empathetic as adults. This heightened sense of empathy can make them more understanding and compassionate toward others who are struggling.

Their experiences have taught them that life can be tough, and everyone is fighting their own battles. As a result, they often approach others with kindness and understanding, recognizing that a little empathy can go a long way.

4) They are extremely frugal

Growing up poor often means learning how to stretch a dollar. This frugality frequently carries over into adulthood, even when financial circumstances improve.

For these individuals, every penny counts. They are more likely to budget carefully, compare prices, avoid unnecessary expenses, and save for the future. It’s not just about being cheap; it’s about being mindful of where their money goes.

They remember the times when they had to scrape together change for a meal or when they couldn’t afford the things they wanted. These memories shape their financial habits, making them more cautious and meticulous about their spending.

In essence, their past has taught them the value of money and the importance of managing it wisely. These are valuable lessons that serve them well in adulthood.

5) They appreciate small things

When you grow up without a lot, you learn to find joy in the simplest of things. This is a trait that often sticks with adults who grew up poor.

These individuals recognize the value and beauty in small gestures and everyday moments. A home-cooked meal, a walk in the park, a good book, or a heartfelt conversation can bring them immense joy.

They don’t take things for granted and are often more mindful and present in their day-to-day life. This ability to appreciate the little things makes them more content and less likely to chase after material possessions for happiness.

In essence, growing up poor can teach you to see the richness in life beyond material wealth.

6) They understand the value of hard work

Those who grow up poor often develop a deep understanding of the value of hard work. They’ve seen the struggles, the sacrifices, and the relentless effort it takes to make ends meet.

These individuals know that nothing in life comes easy. They’re no strangers to long hours, multiple jobs, and doing whatever it takes to provide for themselves and their families.

This understanding shapes their approach to life and work as adults. They’re often among the most dedicated and industrious individuals you’ll meet, not because they love toiling away, but because they understand what it means to earn every bit of what they have.

Their experiences have taught them that there’s dignity in every job and that no task is beneath them if it brings food to the table. This sense of humility and respect for hard work can be a powerful guiding force in their lives.

7) They have an inherent sense of gratitude

Growing up poor can instill a profound sense of gratitude. When you’ve known what it’s like to have very little, you learn to be thankful for what you do have.

I recall a time in my childhood when my family had to rely on food banks for meals. It was a humbling experience that taught me never to take anything for granted. Every meal, no matter how simple, was something to be grateful for.

To this day, I take a moment before each meal to appreciate it. It’s not about the food itself, but about acknowledging the journey it took to get there and the privilege of having enough.

This deep-seated gratitude extends beyond meals. It’s about appreciating the big things and the small in life, and recognizing that every blessing, no matter how small, is a cause for gratitude.

8) They are often resilient

One of the most striking characteristics of people who grew up poor is their resilience. They’ve faced hardships and overcome challenges that have fortified them and made them stronger.

Resilience isn’t just about bouncing back from tough times; it’s about learning, growing, and coming out stronger on the other side. It’s this quality that enables them to handle life’s ups and downs with grace and determination.

They know that life won’t always be easy, but they also understand that they have the strength and adaptability to weather any storm. This resilience often makes them formidable adults, capable of handling whatever life throws their way.

Their past hardships haven’t weakened them but have instead forged them into stronger, more resilient individuals.

9) They strive to provide a better life for their loved ones

Above all, adults who grew up poor often harbor a deep-seated desire to provide a better life for their loved ones. They’ve experienced the struggles of poverty firsthand and are determined to spare their families from similar hardships.

This motivation fuels their drive and ambition. They work tirelessly, constantly pushing themselves to create a more secure and prosperous future. Their actions aren’t driven by material aspiration alone but by the love for their family and the desire to give them the best life possible.

This unwavering commitment to their loved ones is perhaps one of the most admirable behaviors exhibited by those who grew up poor. It’s a testament to their strength, resilience, and the power of love in shaping our lives.

Final thoughts: It’s a journey of growth

The experiences we accumulate during our formative years can leave indelible marks on our character, shaping our behaviors and attitudes in adulthood.

Growing up poor, while fraught with challenges, can also be a breeding ground for resilience, empathy, resourcefulness, and gratitude. It’s about learning to find happiness in the simplest things, valuing experiences over material possessions, and understanding the true worth of hard work.

These are not just behaviors but life lessons that serve us well in the long run. They help us navigate life’s ups and downs with grace and strength, fostering a deeper appreciation for what truly matters.

Life isn’t about where we start but where we end up. And for those who began their journey in poverty, their experiences have equipped them with invaluable tools to forge a path toward a better future.

In the end, these behaviors are not just remnants of a difficult past but stepping stones towards a hopeful future. They are reminders that adversity can strengthen us, shape us, and ultimately, help us grow.