Certain fundamental human attributes aren’t exclusive to the wealthy. There are many positive personality traits rich and poor people share, like creativity and resilience. Here are 10 characteristics many wealthy and low-income individuals have in common, demonstrating that we’re all more alike than different.
1. Creativity
Creativity is one of the traits rich and poor people share. People from all socioeconomic backgrounds can think outside the box to find new opportunities and solutions.
Low-income people often develop innovative ways to stretch a dollar, entertain themselves cheaply, and climb their way out of poverty. Similarly, generating wealth requires an inventive, entrepreneurial mindset, so rich people share this trait.
2. Resilience
Both rich and poor individuals often exhibit resilience in the face of challenges and setbacks. This trait helps them bounce back from adversity and continue pursuing their goals.
Poor people have fewer financial resources, which may make it harder for them to recover from emergencies like natural disasters. However, low-income communities are often close-knit, providing each other with the support necessary to make it through hardships.
3. Empathy And Generosity
Empathy transcends economic boundaries and is one of the traits rich and poor people share. There are people living in poverty who would give you the shirt off their back. Likewise, many rich people display generosity and empathy by giving back to those in need through charity and volunteer work.
4. Ambitiousness
Many people, regardless of their economic status, are driven by ambition and a desire to succeed. They set goals and work hard to achieve them, whether it’s climbing the career ladder or improving their financial situation. Studies have shown that nearly 75% of Americans work overtime at least once per week, demonstrating that dedication and a good work ethic aren’t traits exclusive to the wealthy.
5. Neuroticism And Anxiety
Neuroticism is a Big Five personality trait that you can have whether you’re rich or poor. This trait causes people to feel extra stressed and anxious in their everyday life.
Rich or poor, we all deal with issues that can exacerbate our stress and anxiety, like work problems, health concerns, and familial conflicts.According to Forbes, rich people even worry about money just like the rest of us. Although lack of financial resources can cause significant anxiety, certain worries may not disappear just because you have money.
6. Responsibility
While financial resources may differ, responsibility is a trait that can be found in individuals from various economic backgrounds. Although some believe that low-income households display irresponsibility in the way they handle money, in reality they’re often adept at budgeting and saving. Studies have shown that poor individuals even perform better than rich people on certain financial competency tests, which demonstrates their good judgment.
Rich people must also develop a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility to maintain and grow their wealth. If they spend frivolously and live above their means, they may expend all of their financial resources, leaving little for future generations.
7. Optimism
Studies have shown that happiness can increase as income rises, but optimism is not a trait that’s exclusive to the wealthy. After all, there’s more to life than money. Many poor people are happy and content with their lives, families, and jobs despite financial difficulties.
Plus, some individuals who have become wealthy over the course of their careers report that accumulating money hasn’t made them any more optimistic, including Barbara Corcoran. Although money helps improve wellbeing, optimism isn’t necessarily determined by the number of zeroes in your bank account. You can still find silver linings and look on the bright side even if you’re going through hard times.
8. Hopefulness
Hope for the future isn’t necessarily determined by your income bracket either. The majority of Americans say that they are hopeful about the trajectory of their personal life and the future of their local community. Regardless of your financial status, you can cultivate a more positive attitude and work toward creating a better future for yourself and your family.
9. Materialism
Psychology experts say that people have a built-in sense of materialism and desire for prestige. We all want to be liked and think status symbols will help us be accepted by our peers. Regardless of your income level, it’s natural to seek the approval of others.
However, you shouldn’t dig yourself into a financial hole to satisfy your materialism and acquire status symbols like designer clothes and luxury cars. It’s possible to overspend and live above your means even if you’re relatively well-off, so try to avoid keeping up with the Joneses.
10. Curiosity
There are curious people who want to learn and grow in all income brackets. A desire for self-improvement and career development isn’t exclusive to the wealthy.
Thanks to the internet, it’s easier and cheaper than ever to educate yourself on diverse subjects and acquire new skills. The accessibility of learning materials makes it possible to pursue your passions even if you don’t have a ton of financial resources.
Have Compassion For Others
We all come from different backgrounds, face unique challenges, and have our own viewpoints, which can make it difficult to find common ground. But it’s important to have compassion for each other and remember that we share the same basic human needs and emotions, whether we’re rich, poor, or somewhere in between.
Vicky Monroe is a freelance personal finance and lifestyle writer. When she’s not busy writing about her favorite money saving hacks or tinkering with her budget spreadsheets, she likes to travel, garden, and cook healthy vegetarian meals.
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