Growing up poor can shape you in ways that stick with you long into adulthood.

It’s not just about the struggle for resources; it’s about the lessons you learn, the habits you form, and the resilience you build.

Being raised in a low-income family often means you’ve developed some unique traits. These traits, while sometimes seen as negative, can actually be your greatest strengths.

In this article, we’re going to explore 8 traits that are common among adults who grew up in poor families. And let me tell you, these traits are something to be proud of.

1) You’re resourceful

Growing up in a low-income family often means you had to make do with what was available.

Necessity breeds innovation, and you likely had to get creative with how to use resources to their fullest potential. Whether it was finding multiple uses for a single item or finding ways to stretch a meal, your childhood probably involved a lot of problem-solving.

This kind of resourcefulness doesn’t just disappear when you become an adult and have more access to resources. It becomes ingrained in your thinking, turning you into someone who can see multiple solutions to a problem where others might only see one.

So if you often find yourself thinking outside the box or coming up with creative solutions, it might be a sign of your upbringing. And it’s definitely something to be proud of. This trait can be extremely valuable in all areas of life, from personal relationships to the workplace.

2) You value relationships over material possessions

Growing up, my family didn’t have a lot of money. We couldn’t afford the latest gadgets or the trendiest clothes. But what we did have was each other.

We spent quality time together, playing board games, telling stories, and just generally enjoying each other’s company. We learned to value relationships and experiences over material possessions.

Now, as an adult, I find that I still carry that value with me. I’d much rather have a meaningful conversation with a friend than buy the newest iPhone. I’d choose a home-cooked meal with my family over an expensive dinner at a fancy restaurant any day.

This outlook has helped me build strong relationships and focus on what’s really important in life. And it’s a trait I’ve noticed is common among others who also grew up in poor families.

3) You have a strong work ethic

In a low-income family, hard work isn’t just applauded – it’s often a matter of survival. Many children from poorer families start working at an early age, contributing to the household income or helping with chores and responsibilities at home.

This early introduction to work instills a sense of responsibility and a strong work ethic that can continue into adulthood.

This strong work ethic can turn into a powerful asset in adult life, fueling career success and personal development. So while growing up poor can be challenging, it can also equip you with the grit and determination to succeed.

4) You’re empathetic

When you’ve experienced hardship firsthand, it can make you more understanding and empathetic towards others who are going through tough times.

Growing up in a poor family often means witnessing struggles and hardships that many people may not understand. This can lead to a greater ability to empathize with people who are in difficult situations.

This empathy can be a powerful tool in your personal and professional life. It can help you forge strong relationships, be a better leader, and make a positive impact on the people around you.

So if you find that you’re often the person friends turn to when they need someone who just “gets it,” your upbringing could be why.

5) You appreciate the small things

When luxuries are few and far between, you learn to appreciate the little things in life. A warm meal, a roof over your head, a good book from the library – these might seem insignificant to some, but for those who grew up in a poor family, they are often sources of genuine happiness.

As an adult, this ability to find joy in the simple things can be a real blessing. In a world that’s often focused on the next big thing, being able to pause and appreciate what you already have can bring a deep sense of contentment and gratitude.

So if you find that you’re often happier with less, and can find joy in simplicity, it’s likely a trait you’ve carried with you from your upbringing. And it’s a trait that can truly enrich your life.

6) You’re adaptable

I remember moving houses a lot when I was a kid. We would pack up our meager belongings and move to a new place, often with little notice. It was tough and sometimes scary, but it also taught me how to adapt.

When you grow up in a poor family, circumstances can change quickly and unpredictably. You learn to roll with the punches, adjust to new situations, and make the best of what you have.

This adaptability has been a huge asset in my adult life. Whether it’s starting a new job, moving to a new city, or dealing with unexpected challenges, I’ve found that I can adjust quickly and effectively.

So if you find that you’re often able to thrive in changing circumstances, it could be a strength you developed during your childhood.

7) You’re resilient

Growing up in a poor family often means facing more than your fair share of challenges. But these obstacles can also breed resilience.

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity, to keep going when times are tough, and to not let failure or hardship keep you down. It’s a trait that’s often developed out of necessity when growing up in a low-income family.

As an adult, this resilience can help you navigate life’s ups and downs, and keep you moving forward, even when faced with setbacks.

8) You’re ambitious

Growing up in a poor family often fuels a burning desire to create a better future for yourself. You’ve seen the struggles and hardships, and you’re determined not to let your own children experience the same.

This ambition can drive you to work harder, aim higher, and constantly strive for improvement. It can lead you to pursue education, seek out opportunities, and push yourself beyond your comfort zone.

So if you’re driven by a desire to build a better life, it’s likely rooted in your upbringing. And it’s an incredibly powerful trait that can propel you to achieve great things.