Growing up financially unstable can have lifelong effects, often shaping our behaviors and choices in adulthood.

It’s not all doom and gloom, though.

In fact, some of these behaviors can actually be beneficial, lending a unique perspective on money, resilience, and resourcefulness.

But let’s be clear, it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. Everyone’s experience is different, but there are certain commonalities that tend to surface.

So let’s dive into it – here are 8 behaviors often seen in people who grew up financially unstable. Each one tells a story about how our past can shape our future.

1) They value experiences over material possessions

Growing up financially unstable often leaves lasting marks on an individual’s perceptions of money and wealth.

One of the most common behaviors observed in people who grew up with financial instability is a tendency to value experiences over material possessions.

This might seem counterintuitive, especially considering that material goods were likely scarce in their childhood. But that’s exactly the point.

Growing up in such circumstances often teaches people that happiness doesn’t stem from owning the latest gadget or designer clothes.

Rather, it comes from experiences – spending quality time with loved ones, traveling, learning new things, or even just enjoying a good meal.

This perspective is not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, research suggests that investing in experiences rather than material goods can lead to greater happiness.

However, it can also be a double-edged sword. While valuing experiences over material possessions can lead to a rich and meaningful life, it can also make it harder to save money and build financial stability.

2) They tend to be resourceful

Those of us who grew up without a lot of money often become experts at making the most of what we have. Resourcefulness becomes second nature.

Take me, for example. I remember my childhood days when we didn’t have much. My mom would magically transform leftover meals into a whole new dish, so nothing ever went to waste.

I learned the value of every penny, and how to stretch it as far as possible.

To this day, I carry these lessons with me. Whether it’s repurposing an old piece of furniture instead of buying new, or cooking at home instead of eating out, I’ve found ways to make my money go further.

This resourcefulness isn’t just about saving money, but also about problem-solving and creativity – skills that are beneficial in many areas of life.

3) They’re often more empathetic

Growing up financially unstable often means encountering situations that require understanding, support, and compassion. This can lead to the development of a higher level of empathy.

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It’s a key component of emotional intelligence, which is linked to better relationships, leadership skills, and mental health.

A study conducted by the University of Minnesota found that children who grow up in low-income households develop a heightened awareness of others’ emotions.

This increased sensitivity can carry over into adulthood, leading to a higher level of empathy.

While empathy is generally seen as a positive trait, it’s important to note that it can also lead to emotional exhaustion if not managed properly.

So, while growing up financially unstable may enhance empathy, it’s also crucial to learn how to protect one’s own emotional well-being.

4) They’re often highly adaptable

Growing up with financial instability often means dealing with unpredictable circumstances – maybe moving frequently, or having to adjust to different schools or neighborhoods.

This constant need to adapt can foster an ability to handle change and uncertainty that carries over into adulthood.

People who grew up financially unstable are often highly adaptable. They’re used to adjusting to new situations and making the best out of them.

This adaptability can be a great asset in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world.

5) They understand the value of hard work

When you grow up with financial instability, you quickly learn that nothing is handed to you on a silver platter.

You see the struggles and sacrifices made by those around you, and the effort it takes to make ends meet.

This instills a deep understanding of the value of hard work. You come to appreciate that rewards and achievements are often the result of perseverance, effort, and determination.

6) They often have a complex relationship with money

Growing up without a lot of financial resources can lead to a complicated relationship with money.

For me, this has been a journey of unlearning and relearning. I used to view money with fear and anxiety, constantly worrying about having enough.

I saw it as something that was always just out of reach, something that caused stress and tension.

As I grew older, I realized that this mindset wasn’t serving me well.

So I started to educate myself about personal finance. I learned how to budget, how to save, and how to invest.

Most importantly, I learned that money is a tool. It’s not something to be feared or worshipped, but something that can provide security, freedom, and opportunities when used wisely.

However, changing one’s mindset is not an overnight process. It takes time, patience, and consistent effort. But it’s worth it.

Today, while I still have my financial worries from time to time, they no longer consume me. And that’s progress.

7) They often prioritize financial security

For individuals who grew up financially unstable, achieving financial security is often a priority in adulthood.

This can manifest in various ways, such as a strong focus on saving, investing, or pursuing a stable career.

The experience of financial instability can leave a deep-seated desire to ensure that they, and their loved ones, never have to experience such hardships again.

While this focus on financial security can be beneficial in building a stable future, it’s also important to remember not to let it consume one’s life.

Money is important, but it’s not everything. It’s crucial to find a balance between pursuing financial stability and enjoying life’s pleasures.

8) They are resilient

Lastly, people who grew up in a financially unstable environment often develop resilience.

The experience of overcoming financial hardships, adapting to challenging situations, and navigating through uncertainty builds a kind of strength that stays with you.

This resilience can be a powerful tool in dealing with life’s challenges. It can help individuals to bounce back from setbacks, to keep going in the face of adversity, and to never lose hope that things can get better.

Final thoughts

Growing up financially unstable can indeed lead to certain behaviors in adulthood, but it can also foster resilience, empathy, and resourcefulness.

It can teach the value of hard work, the importance of experiences over material possessions, and the necessity of financial security.

It’s our responsibility to recognize these behaviors, understand their roots, and harness them for personal growth.

In the end, growing up financially unstable might have shaped us, but it doesn’t define us. We have the power to shape our own futures.