People Who Grew Up Poor Share Things They Used To Consider "Luxuries" That Only The Rich Could Enjoy

Some childhood assumptions stick around for years, especially when money is tight and everyday life feels out of reach. For a lot of people, things like orange juice, takeout, or even a second floor in a house once seemed like signs of serious wealth.

That is exactly the kind of conversation a Reddit user sparked on r/AskReddit, asking what people thought only rich families could afford until they realized they were just broke growing up. The replies are full of small, funny, and sometimes painfully relatable examples of what felt like luxury at the time.

And once you start reading them, it is hard not to remember a few of your own.

Here's the original post by Reddit user u/Ekudar:

Reddit

1. Orange juice.

As a kid, I vowed to be able to afford as much orange juice as I wanted when I got older. Started working in high school and used my first paycheck to buy a gallon of orange juice. I drank it all in one day and got horrible diarrhea.

--bspring

Unsplash

2. "Eating every day."

--Justasimplewanker21

Unsplash

Growing up in poverty often shapes perceptions of luxury and success, as individuals internalize societal values regarding wealth. Research published in the Journal of Economic Psychology suggests that those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds often develop a keen awareness of social hierarchies, leading to feelings of inadequacy when comparing themselves to wealthier peers.

This can create a lasting impact on self-esteem and life satisfaction, as individuals grapple with their perceptions of what constitutes a 'luxury.'

The experiences shared by individuals who grew up in poverty reveal a profound truth about how financial circumstances shape perceptions of luxury. The article highlights that for many, items and experiences considered basic by wealthier peers are viewed as unattainable luxuries. This stark contrast fosters a scarcity mindset, where aspirations are often stunted by the immediate need to prioritize survival over long-term goals. The lack of resources not only limits access to what others take for granted but also hinders the ability to envision a future where those luxuries could become attainable. This cycle perpetuates a focus on immediate gratification rather than strategic planning, impacting life choices well into adulthood.

3. Butter.

My mother only bought margarine because we couldn't afford butter. I only tasted it in high school when I got my first job and would occasionally go out to eat with friends.I promised my self that I would only have real butter when I got my own place.50 years later I have 2 GRADES of butter at all times. Kirkland to cook and bake with, and Kerry Gold to eat on bread, potatoes, etc.It makes me feel like Mrs. Gotrocks!

--czndra60

Sorin Gheorghita

4. "A two story house. If you had stairs you were rich."

--cowdog987

Unsplash

5. "Not entirely in line with the question, but:"

Two pairs of shoes. I thought only rich kids had more than one pair of shoes. I didn't realize we weren't poor, and when I told my dad, "I want another pair of shoes but I know we can't afford it" he IMMEDIATELY took me to the shoe store and bought me a pair so I could be "rich" lol

--ElusoryLamb

Unsplash

Moreover, the concept of relative deprivation plays a crucial role in shaping feelings of dissatisfaction among those who grew up poor.

This phenomenon highlights the importance of fostering a sense of gratitude and appreciation for one's circumstances, which can mitigate negative emotions associated with social comparison.

Interestingly, this scarcity mentality can also affect interpersonal relationships. Psychologists suggest that when individuals perceive resources as limited, they may become more competitive and less collaborative.

Studies highlight that this can lead to increased stress and anxiety, making it challenging to form meaningful connections with others.

6. "New clothes for no reason."

I was so confused when I got to highschool and girls would just suddenly have the new trend piece, I didn't understand why they were just allowed to have them.

--findingemotive

Unsplash

7. "Vacations. Like actually going somewhere. We'd go on car trips once in awhile."

--Revolutionary-Rip-40

Unsplash

8. "Travelling by plane. As a kid I never been in an airplane, I always thought that was for extremely rich people."

--Saaihead

Unsplash

Identity, particularly in relation to socioeconomic status, influences how individuals define luxury.

Research shows that individuals who cultivate aspirations tend to exhibit higher resilience and better coping strategies when faced with adversity.

9. "There was a rich kid in highschool that complained about me wearing the same five sets of clothes every week... "

I said 'if it bothers you that much, why don't you buy some' and he said 'tell your parents to' and laughed like it was a burn or something. That was when I realized Greg S. from AHHS class of '02 was a complete piece of s**t lacking in empathy, but to answer the question: nice clothes.

--throwaway9843545555

Pexels

10. Takeaway food.

My first experience of it was having a sleepover at a friends house. We were, apparently, set to have Chinese food that evening.I was asked what I wanted. I had no clue. So the parents just recommended something. I just said OK.I was staggered to NOT see the mother cooking. She was just mooching around the house doing *f*k all*. Where was this food? Why wasnt she preparing it?Then a knock on the door. And some person delivered a box of food. With more boxes in it. One box was for me...Madness.Such wealth to get people to make and deliver your food. That display of *vast wealth* stayed with me for a very long time...

--SometimesaGirl-

kayleigh harrington

11. "A fridge with an ice dispenser"

--Bento_Fox

nrd

Understanding these dynamics can empower individuals to reshape their narratives and embrace their unique identities.

This echoes the AITA drama where a cousin’s loan was used for a luxury purchase.

To foster aspirations, individuals can set achievable goals and create action plans that outline the steps needed to reach those goals.

Engaging in mentorship or educational programs can also provide guidance and support, helping individuals expand their horizons and envision a brighter future.

12. "Going out to a sit down restaurant"

--Confident-Annual9970

Life Of Pix

13. "Kitchen islands"

--flowers4charlie777

Francesca Tosolini

14. "Going to the movies"

--basic-fatale

Tima Miroshnichenko

Engaging in positive self-talk and affirmations can also help individuals reframe their narratives and cultivate a more positive self-image.

The experiences shared by individuals who grew up poor reveal the profound impact of resilience in navigating the challenges of their upbringing. Many recount how supportive relationships and community resources became lifelines, helping them to foster a sense of hope and possibility in an otherwise difficult environment. The article illustrates that those who found strength in their networks often emerged with a unique perspective on what constitutes luxury, whether it was something as simple as a warm meal or a new pair of shoes. This highlights the essential role that connection and support play in enabling individuals to thrive despite the odds stacked against them.

15. "Having actual tissues instead of toilet paper to blow your nose."

--whatcolorismyshirt

Pixel Rich

16. "Crayola, you knew if you were a RoseArt kid."

--banhbohap

Leisy Vidal

17. "My husband thinks it's really strange that I ask for new clothes for Christmas."

Not even fancy clothes, just stuff like pajamas. He thinks that's an everyday expense. I see it as kind of special as that is the only time I ever got a new piece of clothing as a child. Any other time I had to sew and patch up old clothes or receive hand-me-down clothes. Also I just learned to wear oversized hand-me-down clothes and shoes until I grew into them.

--arturobear

Erwan Hesry

Additionally, building supportive networks can foster a sense of belonging and validation.

To build resilience, individuals should seek out supportive communities that offer encouragement and resources. Participating in group activities or local organizations can provide a sense of belonging and promote emotional well-being.

Engaging with mentors or role models can also inspire hope and motivate individuals to pursue their aspirations.

18. "Things at the book fair."

They quite literally had a rags to riches story, they lived in the most run-down house available in the Philippines.After years of gaining money, my grandpa and grandma managed to move the entire family into a condo. And that’s where my mum and dad come in, once they had me they gave me a life that they didn’t have. Toys, proper food and generally a better life then what they had. I’m forever thankful.

--mushroomconsumerr34

Unsplash

19. "Things at the book fair."

You could probably buy a good hoard of stuff from the book fair for 30-50 dollars looking back. I was given $7 one year to buy something and I couldn’t afford a book.

--haydawg8

Kate Bezzubets

20. "Air conditioning."

--New-Watcher

Unsplash

Recognizing and valuing personal experiences, regardless of societal definitions of luxury, can enhance life satisfaction.

By focusing on personal achievements and joys, individuals can cultivate a more positive outlook on life.

A growth mindset is crucial for personal development, particularly for those who have experienced economic hardship. Research on mindset shows that believing in one's ability to grow and change can lead to greater success.

Studies indicate that individuals with a growth mindset are more likely to take risks and embrace challenges, fostering resilience in the face of setbacks.

21. "Retirement savings"

--pupi-face

Pexels

It's always interesting to see the realizations people have after becoming adults. We always think a lot of things are expensive for whatever reason, but they end up being quite common and normal.

It is so sad that so many kids grow up in poverty. If you enjoyed reading this, make sure to check out similar content on our platform.

To cultivate a growth mindset, individuals can practice self-reflection, focusing on past successes and the lessons learned from failures.

Engaging in positive affirmations and surrounding oneself with supportive influences can also reinforce a belief in one's potential to achieve goals and overcome obstacles.

The reflections shared by individuals who grew up in poverty reveal a profound transformation in their understanding of luxury and worth. The article highlights how the simple pleasures once deemed exclusive to the wealthy, such as a warm meal or new shoes, become benchmarks of aspiration. This perspective illustrates not only the struggles faced but also the resilience developed in the face of adversity. By fostering a community that acknowledges these experiences, there is potential for healing and growth, as these individuals strive to redefine their goals and aspirations beyond their past limitations.

Ultimately, the journey to redefine luxury and success is deeply personal. Understanding that worth extends beyond material possessions can empower individuals to create their own definitions of success, leading to greater emotional well-being and fulfillment.

This shift in perspective can promote resilience and a healthier relationship with one's socioeconomic background.

The narratives shared by individuals who grew up in poverty reveal a profound transformation in how they define luxury and success. The article illustrates how these experiences are not merely memories but serve as foundational elements that influence their adult lives. By adopting coping strategies and crafting personal stories, these individuals learn to reconcile feelings of inadequacy and develop a more positive self-image.

This journey emphasizes the importance of recognizing the worth of one's unique experiences. It is evident that true fulfillment comes from understanding and embracing personal definitions of success, rather than conforming to societal expectations of wealth and privilege.

For another budget breakdown, see what happened when someone split trip costs over friends’ “luxurious” preferences.