Growing up working class was more than just a phase in my life – it dictated my habits, my outlook, and the way I see the world even today.

Let me tell you, it wasn’t a cakewalk. There were struggles and there were sacrifices. But there were also lessons – lessons that made me who I am today.

These lessons, or rather habits, have shaped my perspective on life in ways that nothing else has. In this article, I will share 8 of these habits that I still practice today.

So, let’s delve into the world of a working-class upbringing and explore how it continues to influence one’s present, no matter where they end up.

1) Making Do

Growing up working class, you quickly learn the value of every cent. And more than that, you learn how to make do with what you have.

This is a lesson that has stayed with me far beyond my childhood. Even today, I find myself practicing frugality and resourcefulness in ways that others might not understand.

Take for example a simple meal. In my family, we never threw away leftovers. Instead, they would be turned into a new meal the next day. This habit has taught me to see the potential in things that others might discard.

In today’s world of excess and consumerism, this practice of making do and avoiding wastefulness is not just beneficial for my wallet, but also for the environment.

It’s a habit rooted in my working-class upbringing, one that has shaped my perspective on the material world and instilled in me a sense of responsibility towards it.

2) Valuing Hard Work

One of the earliest lessons I learned from my working-class background was the importance of hard work. My parents worked tirelessly, not just to provide for our family, but to instill in me a sense of dedication and discipline.

I remember one particular summer when I was around 14. My dad had taken up a second job to cover some unexpected expenses. He would leave early in the morning for his first job, come home late in the afternoon, grab a quick bite, and then head out for his second job.

Watching him juggle two demanding jobs without complaint made me realize the value of hard work. I saw how it led to tangible results and kept our family afloat.

Today, this lesson influences my own work ethic. I strive to put in my best at whatever I do, remembering my father’s dedication and how it kept us going through tough times. This habit is a direct reflection of my working-class roots, and continues to shape my approach towards work and life.

3) Prioritizing Needs over Wants

Growing up working class instills a keen sense of distinguishing between needs and wants. This understanding is often developed out of necessity, as financial constraints mean that luxuries are few and far between.

In today’s society, the average American household carries $8,398 in credit card debt, much of which is due to discretionary spending. However, those with a working-class background are often less likely to fall into this trap.

This habit of prioritizing needs over wants not only helps to keep finances in check, but also leads to a more contented and appreciative outlook on life. It’s a habit that grounds me in reality and helps me focus on what truly matters.

4) Respecting Manual Labor

In a working-class family, you quickly learn to respect all forms of labor. Whether it’s the cleaner sweeping the streets or the mechanic fixing cars, every job has its value and dignity.

Growing up, I saw my parents and our neighbors putting their blood, sweat, and tears into their jobs. It was clear to me that every job, no matter how physically demanding or seemingly menial it was, contributed to the community in some way.

This understanding has stayed with me throughout my life. Today, I hold immense respect for those who do manual labor. This perspective pushes me to value every person’s contribution and view no job as inferior. It’s a habit that has shaped my worldview and made me more appreciative of the hard work that often goes unnoticed.

5) Cherishing Family

Growing up working class, you learn to value the things that money can’t buy. Among those, family is at the top of the list.

In times of financial strain, it’s often family that becomes your support system. They are the ones who share your struggles and lift your spirit when times are tough.

I remember countless nights huddled together with my siblings, sharing stories and laughter, finding joy in each other’s company despite our financial situation. Those moments of love and togetherness became our richest possessions.

Even today, I carry this value with me. Family is not just an important part of my life; it’s my anchor, my safe haven. This habit of cherishing family is a beautiful aspect of my working-class upbringing, one that has brought immeasurable warmth and love into my life.

6) Embracing Humility

In a world where many people strive to flaunt their wealth and status, growing up working class taught me the beauty of humility.

I remember my school days when I couldn’t afford the latest gadgets or branded clothes like some of my classmates. At times, it was challenging to see others flaunt their possessions, especially when I knew my family was struggling financially.

But over time, I realized that humility allowed me to focus on my character rather than material possessions. It made me appreciate the non-material aspects of life and nourished a sense of contentment within me.

Today, this humility is a part of who I am. It keeps me grounded and reminds me that the true worth of a person lies in their actions and values, not in their monetary wealth. This habit is a testament to my working-class roots and continues to shape my perspective on life.

7) Understanding the Value of Education

Education is often seen as a ticket out of the working class. In my family, it was always emphasized as the key to a better future.

I remember my parents constantly reinforcing the importance of doing well in school. They pushed me to give my best, not just for grades, but to gain knowledge and skills that would serve me throughout my life.

This mindset has stayed with me. Today, I am a firm believer in lifelong learning. I continually strive to learn new things and improve myself, understanding that knowledge is one thing that can’t be taken away from me.

The habit of valuing education, ingrained in me from a young age, has been a guiding force in my life and continues to shape how I approach learning and growth.

8) Practicing Gratitude

Perhaps the most profound habit I developed from my working-class upbringing is practicing gratitude. When resources are scarce, you learn to appreciate the little things in life.

Whether it was a hot meal at the end of the day or a hand-me-down toy from an older sibling, these small joys became treasured moments. This practice taught me to find happiness in simplicity and to be thankful for what I have.

Today, gratitude is not just a habit, it’s a way of life for me. It allows me to focus on the good in my life and cultivates a positive mindset. It’s a powerful tool that has helped me navigate through life’s ups and downs with resilience and optimism.

Final Reflection: The Power of Origins

Growing up working class is not just an economic circumstance; it’s a lived experience that shapes your values, habits, and outlook on life.

One of the most profound writers on the subject, George Orwell, once said, “The essence of being human is that one does not seek perfection.” This quote resonates deeply with my working-class upbringing.

I learned early on to embrace imperfection, to find beauty in struggle, and to cherish the simple joys of life. These lessons have shaped me into the person I am today.

Looking back, I realize that my working-class roots have given me more than just habits; they have given me a perspective on life that I wouldn’t trade for anything. Through hardship and scarcity, I’ve found strength, resilience, and a deep sense of gratitude.

It’s a reminder that our origins have the power to shape us, influence our decisions and mold our character. It’s these very experiences from our past that make us unique and shape how we see the world today.