Growing up poor leaves a mark that runs deeper than most people realize.

I know this firsthand.

When you’re raised in a world where money is tight and nothing comes easy, you learn to adapt in ways others might not understand.

It’s not just about the financial struggles—it’s the lasting psychological impact that shapes your behaviors well into adulthood.

Whether it’s how we handle money, approach relationships, or seize opportunities, those of us who grew up poor carry habits and mindsets rooted in survival.

In this article, I’m sharing seven unique behaviors, backed by psychology, that reveal how our past continues to influence our present.

1) Resourcefulness and creativity

Growing up with less, often breeds a certain level of resourcefulness.

You see, when you don’t have much, you learn how to make the most of what you do have. This might mean:

• Getting creative with meals
• Making your own toys
• Finding free entertainment

This early practice in resourcefulness can translate into adulthood behaviors.

People who grew up poor tend to be more innovative, finding unique solutions to problems that others might not consider.

They often see opportunities where others see obstacles—a testament to their creative, problem-solving mindset.

2) Valuing experiences over material goods

I remember how my childhood was different from many of my peers.

We didn’t have the latest gadgets or the fanciest clothes, but what we did have were experiences.

My parents, despite their financial struggles, went out of their way to make each moment count.

We would go on simple yet memorable picnics, trek local hiking trails, or spend evenings stargazing in our backyard—each experience etched deeply in my memory.

It’s as if these experiences serve as a beautiful reminder that joy isn’t tied to the price tag.

This behavior often carries into adulthood, with individuals opting for enriching experiences over accumulating stuff.

If you prefer a weekend camping trip over a shopping spree, you likely have a background like mine, and I can tell you firsthand, it’s a perspective that adds richness to life, in ways that money can’t buy.

3) A heightened sense of empathy

Struggle has a way of softening the edges of the heart.

When you’ve experienced the pangs of hunger, the chill of a winter night without sufficient heat, or the sting of unfulfilled basic needs, you gain an understanding of what it truly means to be in need.

This understanding can foster a deep sense of empathy.

Psychology has drawn a link between personal hardships and increased empathy; the theory is that going through tough times allows you to better relate to others who are struggling.

This isn’t to say that everyone who grew up poor will automatically be empathetic, but research suggests that they are more likely to understand and share the feelings of others.

4) Appreciation for simple pleasures

Growing up poor can often mean that luxuries are few and far between.

This lack of extravagance, however, can lead to a profound appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.

A warm meal, a good book, a walk in the park—these seemingly ordinary experiences can bring extraordinary joy.

This behavior stems from a deep understanding of the intrinsic value of these simple pleasures.

It’s not about what you have; it’s about how much you can enjoy what you have.

It’s not just a coping mechanism.

It’s a life lesson—one that teaches us to find contentment in simplicity.

5) Strong work ethic and determination

Did you know that many self-made millionaires, such as Steve Jobs and Oprah Winfrey come from humble beginnings?

It’s true.

Growing up poor often means learning the value of hard work from a young age.

It can instill a drive to better one’s circumstances and a refusal to let adversity define one’s future.

Early exposure to financial struggles can lead to a stronger work ethic in adulthood.

It’s as if the challenges faced in the past fuel a determination to build a better future.

This isn’t about glorifying hardship, but about recognizing the strength and resolve that can emerge from it.

So if you’re known for being tirelessly committed to your goals, chances are you’re drawing upon a reservoir of resilience built during your early years.

Know that your determination is not just ambition; it’s a testament to your journey.

6) A deep sense of community and shared responsibility

When resources are scarce, you quickly learn the importance of sticking together and helping each other out.

Growing up poor often means relying on your community—whether it’s neighbors lending a hand, or family members pooling resources to make ends meet.

It teaches you that we’re all in this together, and that shared success is more rewarding than individual triumphs.

This communal spirit goes beyond survival—it shows we understand that we rise by lifting others.

It’s about recognizing the interconnectedness of our lives and valuing collective well-being over individual gain.

7) Resilience in the face of adversity

Perhaps the most remarkable behavior of people who grew up poor is their resilience.

Life’s no stranger to throwing curveballs.

But when you’ve grown up facing a constant barrage of them, you develop an incredible ability to bounce back.

Psychology supports this, suggesting that individuals who have faced significant adversities early in life often develop a higher level of resilience.

This resilience is born out of necessity.

It’s a survival skill, honed over years of navigating life’s ups and downs with limited resources.

But here’s the thing; it’s not just about surviving.

It’s about the courage to keep dreaming, to keep striving for better, despite the odds. It’s about refusing to let hardship snuff out hope.

If you’re someone who remains hopeful and resilient in the face of adversity, pause for a moment and acknowledge your strength. 

Final thoughts

Let’s be clear—growing up poor isn’t something to glamorize.

It’s a tough journey filled with challenges that no one should have to face.

But there’s also a certain strength, creativity, and resilience that can emerge from these experiences.

If you recognize yourself in these behaviors, it means you’ve survived, and more importantly thrived, despite the odds.

That’s a testament to your resilience, and that’s something worth celebrating.

By understanding the psychology behind these behaviors, we can embrace the parts of our past that make us who we are today, while also recognizing where we might want to grow and evolve.