The way you grew up influences who you become as an adult. This is particularly true for people who experienced poverty in their formative years.

Psychologists argue that growing up poor can imprint certain traits on individuals that persist into adulthood.

This article isn’t about stereotyping or making assumptions, but about understanding how early life experiences can shape us.

Let’s delve into the 8 traits often displayed by adults who grew up poor, according to psychological research.

1) Exceptional resilience

Growing up poor can be an uphill battle. But guess what? This often results in a remarkable trait – resilience.

Psychologists have found that individuals who experienced poverty in their early years often become exceptionally resilient adults. It’s the classic case of what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.

These individuals have faced adversity and hardship from a young age, and it’s molded them to handle life’s challenges better. They’ve had to adapt, persist, and push through tough times, which helps them develop a mental strength that remains with them into adulthood.

However, it’s important to remember that this isn’t a hard and fast rule. Not everyone who grows up poor will be resilient. But research suggests there’s a tendency for people who’ve had to fight adversity early on to develop a toughness that serves them well later in life.

2) Value of money

Here’s a personal example. Growing up, we didn’t have a lot of money. We had enough to get by, but that was about it.

This taught me from an early age, the real value of money and the importance of spending wisely. I remember saving up for months to buy my first bike. That experience made me appreciate it more than if it would have been just handed to me.

Many people who grew up poor develop a keen understanding of the value of money. They tend to be more frugal and careful with their spending because they know what it’s like to have very little.

This doesn’t necessarily mean that they are stingy or cheap. It means they know how hard it is to earn money and therefore, they think twice before spending it frivolously.

Is this ringing any bells? Stick around as we uncover more traits common in adults who grew up in poverty.

3) Empathy and understanding

Here’s something you may not have considered. Adults who grew up poor often develop a higher degree of empathy. They’ve been in the shoes of those who struggle and, as a result, are more likely to understand and resonate with others facing similar situations.

A study found that individuals who experienced socioeconomic hardships during childhood tend to show more empathy towards others in distress as adults. They’re often more willing to lend a hand or offer support to those in need.

This isn’t just about sympathy or feeling sorry for someone. It’s about understanding where they’re coming from because they’ve been there themselves. It’s an empathy born from shared experiences and circumstances.

4) Strong work ethic

Individuals who grew up in poverty often develop a strong work ethic. They understand that nothing comes free in life, and that hard work is the key to overcoming challenges and achieving their goals.

This isn’t just about working long hours or multiple jobs. It’s about the drive to improve their circumstances, the determination to never give up, and the willingness to do what it takes to succeed.

Having seen the struggles their families went through, they’re often motivated to create a better life for themselves and their loved ones. They value every opportunity that comes their way and make the most of it.

5) Appreciation for small things

Growing up with less often cultivates an appreciation for the smaller things in life. In a world where we’re constantly bombarded with messages of more – more wealth, more possessions, more success – this can be a refreshing perspective.

For those who grew up poor, the small things can hold great value. A warm meal, a cozy home, love and support from family and friends – these things aren’t taken for granted.

They understand that happiness isn’t about material wealth or status, but about finding joy and satisfaction in what they have. This appreciation for the simple pleasures of life can lead to greater contentment and a deeper sense of gratitude.

6) Creativity and resourcefulness

I remember as a kid, we didn’t have much. But I never felt like we were lacking. Why? Because we had to be creative. We made games out of cardboard, invented stories to keep ourselves entertained, and found unique ways to solve problems.

This creativity and resourcefulness often stem from necessity. When you don’t have much, you learn to make the most out of what you have. It’s about finding solutions instead of focusing on the limitations.

This ability doesn’t just disappear when circumstances improve. It becomes a part of who you are and can significantly contribute to success in later life.

7) Adaptability

People who grew up poor often become highly adaptable adults. They’ve learned from an early age how to adjust to changing circumstances and make the best of difficult situations.

Growing up, they might have had to move homes frequently, switch schools, or adapt to new environments. This experience can make them more flexible and open to change in their adult life.

Being adaptable doesn’t mean they’re always comfortable with change, but they know how to navigate it. It’s a survival skill that can be very useful in today’s fast-paced world.

We’re almost at the end of our list, so let’s move on to our final trait.

8) Ambition

Perhaps one of the most striking traits found in adults who grew up poor is ambition. They’ve seen the harsh realities of poverty firsthand and it often fuels a desire for a better life.

They’re not satisfied with just getting by. They want to create a better future for themselves and their loved ones, and are often willing to work tirelessly to make it happen.

This ambition is not just about financial success. It’s about breaking the cycle, about proving that where you start doesn’t have to dictate where you end up. It’s a powerful driving force that can lead to remarkable achievements.