I didn’t grow up with much.
We lived in a small house in the Philippines. Sometimes no flowing water. Sometimes no electricity. And meals were just enough to feed everyone.
But looking back now, I don’t feel bitter about it.
If anything, growing up poor taught me to respect money more than any finance book ever could.
This post isn’t about trauma. It’s about lessons. Real ones that shaped the way I see money, value, and freedom.
1. I Learned That Every Peso (or Dollar) Has a Job
We didn’t waste anything.
If money came in, it had a purpose: food, school supplies, mortgage.
That mindset stuck with me. Even now, every dollar I earn has a plan.
I don’t let money sit idle—or get spent mindlessly. It either works, grows, or protects.
2. I Don’t Chase Brands or Status
I grew up wearing hand-me-downs from my older brother. We couldn't afford proper toys but I had heaps of fun playing with sticks that looks like swords. And I never felt less because of it.
Today, I still don’t care about fancy logos or driving the newest car.
If it works, it works. If it’s clean, reliable and comfortable, that’s enough.
I buy for function, not flex.
3. I Understand the Power of Small Wins
We didn’t get big breaks—but we made the most of small ones. Like when Dad earned a bit extra during busy seasons, when Mum sold baked goods to stretch our income, or when the local church gave us free rice during typhoons.
That trained me to appreciate small wins.
- Saving $5 on a grocery shop? Win.
- Learning a new skill for free? Win.
- Selling something I no longer use? Win.
Money respect starts with small habits.
4. I Value Food Like It’s Gold
I grew up scraping every last bit of rice from the pot.
Even today, I can’t bring myself to throw food away.
Leftovers? I’ll eat them. Banana too ripe? Banana bread. Stale bread? Toast it.
Frugality isn’t always about saving money—it’s about respecting what money gives you.
5. I’m Not Afraid of Hard Work
My family hustled—selling household goods, with Dad offering repair services and Mum tutoring local kids to bring in extra income.
That made me unafraid of work. I don’t feel entitled to easy money.
If I want financial freedom, I’ll build it—with sweat, consistency, and patience.
6. I’ve Seen What It’s Like to Have Nothing
And that keeps me grounded.
I don’t fear missing out when others spend big. I don’t envy the illusion of wealth on social media.
Because I’ve been on the other side—and I survived.
What I fear now is wasting opportunity, not lacking comfort.
7. I’m Grateful for What I Have—Every Single Day
The fact that I have a roof over my head, food in the fridge, and money to save?
That’s wealth to the kid I used to be.
That gratitude is what keeps me consistent with budgeting, saving, and building something better—not out of fear, but out of purpose.
Final Thoughts
I didn’t choose to grow up poor. But I’m thankful I did.
It taught me:
- To use money with intention
- To focus on what matters
- To build a life based on values, not appearances
Now, I’m on a journey toward financial freedom. Slowly, steadily, and with full respect for every dollar earned.
If you relate to any of this, stick around. I’m building something honest here—one frugal step at a time.
– AJ