In today’s world, material wealth often defines success. This makes it difficult to see the traits and qualities that can’t be measured by the number in your bank account. Of course, the rich may enjoy financial freedom and luxury. However, many people who aren’t affluent have characteristics that can give them a richer, more fulfilling life overall. Here are 10 things poor people have that rich people might actually need to live a happier life.
1. Resilience in the Face of Adversity
For people living in poverty, adversity is something they often have to face. From financial struggles to personal setbacks, they’ve developed a resilience that enables them to keep moving forward. This kind of mindset is something that many wealthy people might not possess. When rich people are faced with any kind of challenge, they often have access to the resources to solve the issue fast. Cash on hand doesn’t provide you with the same level of emotional resilience that repeated exposure to adversity does.
2. Deep Community Bonds
Poor communities tend to lean on each other for help and support. They usually have a tightly-knit social circle and they all rely on one another. This creates a sense of belonging and mutual care. Although no one in that circle has a lot to give, they are willing to share so that no one has to go without. People who have access to wealth may not have deep connections with other people. They tend to have a larger social network, but the relationships aren’t as solid as they might be in a community where people have to rely on each other out of necessity. Overall, rich people could stand to learn from the collective responsibility of these communities and have more meaningful relationships.
3. Resourcefulness and Creativity
When you are living with limited resources, you have to get creative. People from less affluent families often find innovative ways to stretch their money. This kind of approach can be valuable in many ways, but it could especially play a role in the business world. Being wealthy can create a sense of complacency and rich people don’t necessarily approach things with a problem-solving mindset. Having the ability to “make something out of nothing” could benefit wealthy individuals, who tend to take abundance for granted.
4. Gratitude for the Little Things
Showing gratitude is important. Wealthy people are often always pursuing more of what they have in life: money, cars, status, etc. However, for people living in poverty, there is a true sense of gratitude for the simple things in life. A simple meal or a nice conversation can bring someone immense happiness. Having this thankfulness for the little things makes them more content in life, which is something the rich could benefit from greatly. It would allow them to shift their focus away from material possessions and truly enjoy the simple things.
5. Emotional Intelligence
Believe it or not, poorer people tend to have a higher emotional intelligence. They have faced numerous struggles, which helps them develop traits like empathy and patience. That makes it easier for them to connect with people on an emotional level, which is something money truly cannot buy. In the long run, it can help build better personal and professional relationships.
6. Adaptability to Change
Similar to adversity, poor people are often very adaptable. They are frequently faced with unpredictable circumstances like housing insecurity, job loss, and other unexpected events. Because of this, they’ve learned to adapt to change efficiently. The rich, on the other hand, maybe less adaptable because they have stability and routine in their lives. That said, adaptability is a crucial skill to have in today’s world. The markets are shifting and the global economy is changing. Being able to adapt to these things can help ensure long-term success.
7. A Strong Work Ethic
When you’ve grown up without financial security, you usually have to work harder to achieve your goals. Having a strong work ethic because second nature to poorer people. For them, there is no safety net to fall back on, so they know they have to work hard. Wealthy people may come across opportunities more easily. There may not be any desire or need to “grind” to make their goals happen. A strong work ethic will help improve self-discipline, and personal satisfaction though, which can help drive longer-lasting success.
8. Focus on Health and Well-being
High-tech health solutions and expensive medical treatments are not readily available in poor communities. Because of this, people often look to natural remedies and emphasize self-care. Many poorer individuals live a lifestyle that is inadvertently aligned with well-being. People with wealth usually have access to top-tier medical care, but they lead stressful lifestyles that often lead to burnout or other health problems. Placing focus on natural health and balance is something they could learn from those who aren’t as well-off.
9. The Power of Sacrifice
Wealthy people may lean towards having an attitude of entitlement. They are often used to immediate gratification and aren’t necessarily familiar with the idea of sacrifice. Poor people, on the other hand, are often used to sacrificing for the greater good. They might give something up so that their family can have more, or so that the community can benefit. Generally, being able to sacrifice today for a better tomorrow is a positive lesson the wealthy could learn from the poor.
10. A Grounded Sense of Purpose
For poor people, material wealth is not a driving factor in life. So, they find their sense of purpose elsewhere. They might find their purpose in raising a family or contributing to the community. In some cases, it may just be surviving. Having a grounded sense of purpose can provide a deeper sense of fulfillment and can help push you through challenges in life. Although wealthy people might be motivated by financial milestones, they might not have a deeper sense of purpose in life. This can play a key role in your overall happiness.
Learn From Eachother
Many people see wealth as the ultimate goal, but it is important to remember that money can’t buy everything. People from less affluent families are typically more resilient, they are hard-working individuals, and they have strong community bonds. These traits are invaluable. While the rich may have financial resources, adopting some of these characteristics could help lead to a more fulfilling life overall. Remember, your true wealth is not measured by what’s in your bank account. It is measured by the strength of your character.