What if your biggest financial habit wasn’t about money but your childhood?
That question sparked a wave of personal stories after one online user asked how growing up poor continues to affect people in adulthood.
The post quickly filled with responses from users who said financial insecurity had left behind habits they still struggle to change, even after becoming financially stable.
“I Can Afford It, But I Still Won’t Buy It”
The original poster said they now earn a stable income but still save around 80% of their salary. Even though they now have the financial capacity to spend more freely, they still have a deep-rooted sense that money is never quite enough.
This mindset shows up in everyday habits like skipping drinks when eating out, avoiding wasting any food once it’s served, pushing themselves to finish meals they don’t even enjoy, and instinctively choosing the cheapest option without really considering alternatives.
Many commenters said they recognized the same behavior in themselves. Some said they still water down soap bottles, avoid booking private-hire rides unless absolutely necessary, or check their bank balance every day—even when they already know there’s enough money.
Childhood Habits Don’t Always Stay in Childhood
It was not just a matter of being frugal; several users thought that it was more about a lifelong worry regarding scarcity.
Some shared that they have slowly learned to spend more on quality food, health, or experiences after realizing that saving every dollar was affecting their well-being. Others said they still feel guilty whenever they spend money on themselves or let friends pay for a meal.
Others Had the Opposite Experience
Some commenters said growing up poor made them spend more as adults. Now they like traveling, making purchases, or enjoying themselves, as they don’t usually receive this privilege when they are younger.
The discussion revealed that poor childhood experiences have the potential to affect people’s spending behavior differently. Some become careful savers, while others choose to enjoy the things they could not have as children. For some, it means saving every cent. For others, it means finally giving themselves permission to spend.
See the post here:
What are some ways growing up poor has affected you in adulthood that you still can’t seem to change?
byu/Euphoric-Suspect4103 inaskSingapore
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