Growing up in a lower-middle-class family equipped you with important strategies for navigating life and finances. You might not have had the comforts of the upper class, but you learned the value of the dollar and how to stretch it. Here are 15 telltale signs you grew up in a household where money wasn’t readily flowing, but love was. And it’s because of this you learned how to master the art of making the most of what you have and being savvy and resourceful.
1. You Never Skimp on Snacks for Your Kids
No matter how tight money is, your kids’ snacks are always stocked. While you might have scraped by on ramen and cereal, you ensure their lunchboxes are filled with healthy snacks from good brands. It’s not just about providing for them; it’s a way of ensuring they don’t feel the same sting of financial struggle and insecurity you did. You know how having a pantry full of name-brand food feels, so you’ll make sacrifices to ensure the kids don’t feel like they are missing out.
2. You Recycle and Upcycle Everything
You are nothing if not savvy. Your craft closet looks like a treasure trove of old containers and discarded fabric waiting to be turned into something new. You’ll happily transform cereal boxes into storage solutions or repurpose clothes into home decor. It’s not about being cheap but being resourceful, and you take pride in your creativity and finding beauty and function in things others throw away. You also know you’re doing your bit for the environment.
3. You Know the Value of a Good Deal
When it comes to shopping, you’ve got an eagle eye for discounts, clearance sales, and coupons. You do your research and will scour stores and websites to find the best deal or wait until the last minute to snag that thing you’re coveting on sale. It’s not just about saving money; it’s about getting the most bang for your buck. For you, every purchase is a strategic decision that balances need with budget.
4. You’re a Master of Meal Planning
Your weekly meal plans are a work of art designed to minimize cost while never depriving anyone of nutrition or flavor. You know how to stretch a pound of ground beef into multiple meals and leftovers, and every grocery store run is strategic and carefully considered. You aren’t wasteful; you’re creative and economical.
5. You Can’t Resist a Good DIY Project
Why hire an expensive handyman when you can tackle home repairs and improvements yourself is your manta. You’ve taken DIY to an art form by researching on YouTube so you can fix leaky faucets and paint walls. It’s not just about saving money; it’s about the satisfaction of a job well done. You can also redistribute the funds to something more meaningful. There is knowledge and power in knowing you can handle whatever life throws at you with some elbow grease and ingenuity.
6. Your Home is Filled with Hand-Me-Downs
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You’re part sentimental and part financially savvy. You embrace hand-me-downs with open arms, whether furniture, clothes, or toys. Your home is a patchwork quilt of items passed down through the family or acquired from friends. You hate waste and prefer to have things with family connections. You believe older things were often made better, and buying new things when they are not necessary is silly.
7. You Live for Thrift Stores
You’ve turned thrift store shopping into an art form. You love searching for vintage clothes and scouring markets for unique home decor. With a bit of patience and a sharp eye, you score some amazing finds. It’s not about being cheap; it’s about unearthing hidden gems and embracing a lifestyle that values both frugality and style.
8. You’ve Mastered the Art of Budget Vacations
If anyone can do bougie broke, it’s you. Your family vacations are a masterclass in creativity and meticulous planning. Whether a road trip to a nearby state park, a fun-filled staycation, or finding a luxury Airbnb on the cheap, you travel in style without breaking the bank. You realize trips are about creating memories and enjoying experiences rather than paying an arm and a leg.
9. You Know How to Stretch a Dollar
You understood the dollar’s value from an early age, so you’re a pro at using coupons at restaurants and using every last cent on a gift card. Finding smart ways to cut expenses or creatively managing your finances while still enjoying a luxurious life is your jam. It’s not just about surviving but thriving on a budget.
10. You’ve Got a Collection of Old Family Recipes
Family recipes are more than just making meals; they’re a legacy. You’ve got a collection of tried-and-true dishes passed down through the generations. Each one reminds you of where you come from and how you’ve learned to make the most out of simple ingredients and what you have in the fridge. You’re not afraid to roll up your sleeves and get creative in the kitchen, and in doing so, you honor tradition by reconnecting with your past.
11. You’re Resourceful with Old Tech
When it comes to technology, you don’t need the latest, greatest, most expensive gadget; you make do with what you have. Your devices might be a few generations behind, but they still work. You’re not embarrassed by having an old laptop or a hand-me-down phone; they get the job done, and that’s all that matters. You don’t need to keep up with the latest trends or have all the bells and whistles; you need something functional and reliable.
12. You Always Have a Backup Plan
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You’re a master planner, and you always have a backup plan in case life throws you a curve ball. Whether having a list of potential side gigs, knowing where to get cheap groceries, or using the emergency fund you’ve had for years, you’re always prepared. You are proactive and will never be caught off guard when the car breaks down or some other expense crops up.
13. Your Social Life Revolves Around Home Gatherings
You understand going out can be expensive, so you prioritize social gatherings at home. Here, you can control the costs and enjoy the company of friends and family without fear of breaking the bank. Whether it’s a potluck dinner or a backyard barbecue, you favor experiences over material possessions and know good times don’t have to come with a hefty price tag. You’re also a warm and generous host and will give the people you love the shirt off your back.
14. You’ve Got a Collection of DIY Home Remedies
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Some might call it frugal, but you call it savvy. You know you don’t have to spend a fortune on expensive beauty products and remedies. You have homemade cough syrup, are a master at DIY beauty treatments, and know the things in your kitchen that have multiple purposes. You don’t head to the doctor at the first hint of a sniffle; you take control of your health and the family by being preventative.
15. You Take Pride in Your Ability to Fix Things
You’re the first to roll up your sleeves when something breaks or needs attention. Whether fixing a leaky pipe, patching a hole in the wall, or mending a tear in clothes, you take pride in your craftiness and ability to handle repairs yourself. You learned the importance of problem-solving skills and taking care of your business from an early age, which instilled a deep sense of confidence.