Growing up in a low-income family can leave its mark. Not just in the material sense, but also in the behaviors we carry into adulthood.
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These behaviors aren’t negative or positive, they’re simply different. They’re born out of necessity, resilience, and a unique perspective on life and its challenges.
Let’s dive in. Here are seven behaviors typically exhibited by adults who grew up in a low-income family.
1) Value-conscious habits
Growing up in a low-income household often molds a unique relationship with money.
The scarcity of resources can lead to innovative ways of managing finances. This ingrained sense of budgeting and thriftiness can remain deeply rooted in the person’s behavior throughout adulthood.
These adults often display value-conscious habits, placing an emphasis on getting the most out of every dollar. They’re the ones more likely to compare prices, be it for groceries or utilities, and opt for cost-saving alternatives.
This behavior isn’t born out of cheapness, it’s cultivated through years of making ends meet with limited resources. It’s a testament to their resilience and resourcefulness, skills that prove invaluable in many aspects of life.
2) Humility and appreciation
Another behavior I’ve noticed among people who grew up in low-income families, including myself, is a deep sense of humility and appreciation.
I remember growing up in a small two-bedroom apartment, sharing a room with my two siblings. We didn’t have the latest toys or the trendiest clothes. But we learned to value what we had.
This humbling upbringing made us more appreciative of the things we earned later in life. Even today, I find joy in simple things and take nothing for granted. This deep sense of gratitude and humility is a common trait found in adults who’ve experienced a low-income childhood.
This isn’t about being content with less. It’s about understanding the value of hard work, appreciating every success and never taking anything for granted.
3) High levels of empathy
Adults from low-income families often exhibit high levels of empathy. Experiencing hardship firsthand can foster a deeper understanding and concern for others undergoing similar trials.
A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that lower-income individuals are more likely to engage in behaviors that benefit others, driven by their heightened empathic responses.
This isn’t just sympathy, which is feeling sorry for someone else’s misfortune. It’s empathy – the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It manifests itself in acts of kindness, understanding, and solidarity with those facing similar struggles.
4) Resilience and adaptability
Growing up in a low-income family often necessitates the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Whether it’s moving homes, switching schools, or enduring financial instability, these experiences can foster a remarkable resilience.
As adults, this adaptability becomes an asset. They are more likely to bounce back from setbacks and navigate life’s ups and downs with a certain ease. They’ve learned from an early age that life isn’t always predictable or fair, but it’s how they respond to those challenges that truly matters.
This resilience is more than just a survival mechanism. It’s a testament to their strength and flexibility in the face of adversity.
5) The importance of education
In my family, the value of education was instilled in us from a young age. My parents, despite their financial struggles, always stressed the importance of learning.
They believed that education was our ticket to a better life, our path out of poverty. This belief has stayed with me, shaping my decisions and fueling my ambitions.
I’ve seen this same belief among many who grew up in similar circumstances. There’s this almost innate understanding that education holds the power to transform lives and break the cycle of poverty.
This isn’t just about getting good grades or landing a high-paying job. It’s about the pursuit of knowledge, the desire to learn and grow, and the belief that through education, we can change our circumstances.
6) Strong work ethic
A common trait among those who grew up in low-income families is a strong work ethic. Many have seen their parents juggle multiple jobs or work long hours to make ends meet.
This exposure often translates into a dedication to hard work and perseverance. They understand that success doesn’t come easily, and are willing to put in the effort required to achieve their goals.
This isn’t about striving for material wealth or status. It’s about the satisfaction derived from hard work, the sense of accomplishment, and the determination to overcome obstacles. A strong work ethic is a powerful tool, paving the way for personal and professional success.
7) The power of hope
Above all, growing up in a low-income family often instills a profound sense of hope. Against the backdrop of financial struggles, hope becomes a beacon, a driving force that propels individuals forward.
This unwavering belief in a better future can be incredibly powerful. It fuels ambition, sparks resilience, and encourages perseverance.
Hope is the thread that weaves through all these behaviors. It’s the belief that no matter how tough the circumstances, change is possible and a brighter future awaits.
Final thoughts: Our roots shape us
Growing up in hardship can be a profound teacher. It instills certain values and perspectives that can be carried throughout life. It’s about understanding the power of hope, the value of education, and the fulfillment derived from hard work.
Our past shapes us, but it doesn’t define us. It’s not about where we come from, but where we’re going. And for those who’ve grown up in low-income families, their journey is often fueled by a relentless drive to create a better tomorrow.
As American novelist Richard Powers once said, “The best arguments in the world won’t change a person’s mind. The only thing that can do that is a good story.” Maybe understanding these behaviors is a step towards changing the narrative and misconceptions about people who grow up in low-income families.
These behaviors are not limitations. They’re sources of strength and resilience that often go unnoticed and underappreciated.
