Let’s be real—whether we like it or not, people judge us based on small details. The way we dress, talk, and carry ourselves can send signals about our social class, even if we don’t realize it.

And while there’s nothing wrong with being lower-middle class, certain habits can make you look like you are—whether or not you actually are.

These little things might seem harmless, but they can affect how others perceive you in social and professional situations.

If you want to come across as more polished and put-together, it might be worth taking a closer look at these small but telling habits.

1) Complaining Loudly About Prices in Public

I used to do this all the time. Sitting in a café, I’d notice the menu and mutter, “Seriously? Seven bucks for fries?” The funny part was, I didn’t even realize how it made me sound. It wasn’t just about the fries; it was a mindset I was broadcasting.

A casual gripe here and there is normal, but when it becomes your routine—loudly letting everyone know that you think the world is overpriced—people assume you’re strapped for cash or have a scarcity outlook.

Warren Buffett’s famous line fits here: “Price is what you pay; value is what you get.”

If you’re hyper-focused on price, you might be overlooking the bigger picture of value.

2) Overusing Budget or Super-Discount Options in the Wrong Places

Saving money is smart, no question about it. But sometimes going for the absolute cheapest route can send a signal you’re not aware of.

Think about the old, peeling phone case you insist on keeping because it was only two dollars. Sure, you saved a buck, but at what cost to your appearance or reputation?

Mark Twain once said, “Buy land, they’re not making it anymore.” Though he was talking about real estate, the principle is the same. Quality matters. Sometimes it pays to invest a bit more for something that lasts longer or presents you in a more confident light.

3) Over-Apologizing for What You Can’t Afford

Ever been out with friends, and when someone suggests a pricey restaurant, you’re quick to blurt, “Oh, I can’t afford that, sorry!”—then you spend five minutes feeling awkward about it?

I did that a lot in my early twenties. I thought I was just being open, but it made me come across as constantly stressing over money.

It’s absolutely fine to keep a budget. But rather than publicly apologizing, discreetly suggest an alternative or plan around your comfort zone.

A.J. Cronin famously said, “Worry never robs tomorrow of its sorrow; it only saps today of its strength.”

By over-apologizing, you’re putting your financial concerns front and center, overshadowing everything else you bring to the table.

4) Constantly Chasing Freebies

If it’s free, it’s for me—right? We’ve all been there. But if you’re always the first to sign up for a free event just for the goodie bag, or you’re stuffing extra sugar packets into your pockets at every café, it can become your defining trait.

There’s nothing wrong with loving free stuff (my email inbox is proof that I sign up for a ton of giveaways), but when freebies become an obsession, people take note.

Sometimes, that “score” ends up being a pile of clutter you don’t even use.

Moderation is key, so enjoy the occasional freebie without making it your daily mission.

5) Making Excuses for Not Investing in Yourself

Here, “investing” isn’t just about money—it’s about time, effort, and willingness to learn. Maybe you won’t buy a book or attend a workshop because you think it’s “too pricey,” yet you’ll blow the same amount on a random online shopping spree.

Will Smith once said, “Money and success don’t change people; they merely amplify what is already there.” If you aren’t actively spending resources on your own growth—whether those are dollars or hours—it can appear like you’re not pushing forward.

The irony is that the cost of staying stagnant is far greater than the price of improving yourself.

6) Wearing Clothes That Are Visibly Unkempt

You don’t have to sport designer threads or follow runway fashion. However, if you’re regularly showing up in wrinkled shirts, shoes that look like they’ve survived three apocalypses, and a jacket that might just be older than you, it sends a signal you’re not trying.

Back in college, I had a “go-to” T-shirt that was practically disintegrating. I was convinced it gave me laid-back credibility, but truth be told, it just looked sloppy.

It doesn’t take much to upgrade your wardrobe: a little ironing, basic grooming, and maybe a quick visit to the tailor for a proper fit.

7) Over-Sharing Money Woes on Social Media

We all have that friend who constantly posts about being broke, complaining about bills or unexpected expenses. If it’s a once-in-a-blue-moon vent, no big deal—we’re all human. But if your timeline is a running commentary on how you can’t afford things, guess what your personal brand becomes?

It’s important to have people you can confide in privately. Sharing every financial hiccup on social media, though, can lock you into a negative narrative you might have a hard time escaping.

Steve Jobs put it well: “Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice.”

In this case, don’t let your own pessimism drown out your real potential.

Conclusion

Ultimately, these habits might seem minor, but they can collectively shape how others perceive you—often in ways you never intended. From my own experience, awareness is half the battle. Once you realize the power these subtle behaviors hold, you can start reshaping them to better reflect who you truly are and where you want to be.

There’s nothing inherently wrong with being lower-middle class, but if that’s not the image you’re going for—or if you simply want to level up in life—take a closer look at these small habits. Small shifts can lead to massive transformations, and it all starts with recognizing how even the tiniest details can impact the bigger picture. Keep growing, keep learning, and as always, keep moving forward.