People from lower-income backgrounds who become high earners usually do these 7 things differently

We all know that growing wealth isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. It’s not about where you come from; it’s about the steps you take to get where you want to be.

Take a look at those who’ve risen from modest beginnings to become high earners. They usually do things a bit differently, and it’s not just about working harder.

It’s about smart decisions, strategic moves, and embracing personal growth in ways that align with their unique potential and authenticity.

So, curious about what these difference-makers are? Stick around as we reveal the seven common habits of people from lower-income backgrounds who’ve made their way to the top.

Like they say, success leaves clues. Let’s go discover them together, shall we?

1) They prioritize education and skills acquisition

Education and skills acquisition is a common thread among folks who’ve gone from lower-income backgrounds to high earners.

It’s often said that knowledge is power, and this couldn’t be more true when it comes to financial growth.

These individuals understand the value of investing in their own education and skills.

They recognize that this is the ticket to opportunities that might not be readily available otherwise.

These high achievers aren’t necessarily talking about formal education alone.

They continually seek out new knowledge and skills, through books, online courses, mentorships, or even just hands-on experience.

This lifelong learning mindset empowers them to adapt to changing economic landscapes and seize opportunities others might miss.

They don’t view education as an expense; rather, it’s an investment in their most valuable asset – themselves. And for them, it’s an investment that consistently pays the highest dividends.

The takeaway here? Never stop learning. Continual self-improvement and skills acquisition can be your stepping stone to higher earning potential.

2) They embrace frugality early on

Mastering the art of frugality is another common trait among individuals who move from lower-income backgrounds to high earning brackets.

Here’s a little story. Growing up, my family didn’t have much.

We had to carefully manage our finances, which meant cutting back on non-essential spendings and prioritizing needs over wants.

As I got older and started earning more, I carried these habits with me.

Even after securing a good job and achieving financial stability, I didn’t drastically change my spending habits. I continued to live below my means, saving a significant portion of my income.

This allowed me to build a solid financial safety net and invest in opportunities that further increased my wealth.

This isn’t just about being cheap—it’s about being intentional with your resources.

It’s about understanding the value of money, and recognizing that every dollar saved is a dollar that can be used towards creating a better future.

Even if your income increases, don’t fall into the trap of lifestyle inflation—keep your expenses in check and save or invest the difference.

It might not be the most glamorous approach, but it’s one that has proven effective time and again for those who’ve paved their way to higher earnings.

3) They understand the power of networking

The importance of building and maintaining a strong and diverse network is often underestimated.

But those who rise from lower-income backgrounds to become high earners know that it is not just about what you know, but also who you know.

Your network can provide mentorship, partnerships, or investment opportunities.

These high achievers make it a priority to create meaningful relationships within their industry and beyond.

They understand that their network can open doors and provide opportunities that might not have been accessible otherwise.

Don’t underestimate the power of networking. Attend events, join online communities, and proactively reach out to people in your field.

You never know where your next big opportunity might come from.

4) They set clear and achievable goals

Success doesn’t happen by accident. Those who rise from lower-income backgrounds to become high earners often do so by setting clear, achievable goals and then working tirelessly to reach them.

They don’t just dream about becoming wealthy—they make it a concrete goal. And they don’t stop there.

They break down this big goal into smaller, more manageable milestones. This makes the journey less overwhelming and the progress more tangible.

Whether it’s saving a certain amount of money each month, investing in their education, or starting their own business, they set specific targets and devise a plan to reach them.

Goal setting provides direction and motivation. It acts as a roadmap, guiding their actions and decisions towards achieving their financial ambitions.

Without a goal, you can spend your life running up and down the field and never score.

Start setting your financial goals today and take your first step towards high earning potential.

5) They aren’t afraid to take calculated risks

Risk-taking can be daunting. I know this firsthand. A few years ago, I made a decision to quit my steady job to start my own business.

Yes, it was scary, and yes, there were moments of self-doubt. But it was a calculated risk—one that ultimately paid off.

Those who make the leap from lower-income backgrounds to high earners often have this in common—they’re willing to step out of their comfort zones and take calculated risks.

They understand that in order to achieve higher rewards, they must be willing to take on higher risks.

This doesn’t mean they’re reckless. On the contrary, they carefully evaluate the potential outcomes before making their move.

They ask themselves, “What’s the best that could happen? What’s the worst?” Then they make an informed decision based on those possibilities.

Risk-taking might feel uncomfortable, but remember—great things never come from comfort zones.

If you want to increase your earning potential, don’t be afraid to take calculated risks when opportunities present themselves.

6) They’re persistent and resilient

Persistence and resilience are key traits of those who rise from lower-income backgrounds to become high earners.

The path to financial success is rarely smooth—it’s often filled with obstacles and setbacks. But these individuals don’t let these challenges deter them.

They view failures not as the end of the road, but as learning opportunities. They use their mistakes and setbacks as stepping stones to grow and improve.

They understand that success isn’t about never failing, but about getting back up every time you fall.

This resilience and determination set them apart.

They keep pushing forward, relentlessly pursuing their goals, even when the odds are stacked against them.

Don’t be discouraged by setbacks or failures.

Stay persistent, stay resilient, and keep pushing towards your financial goals. Your determination will pay off in the long run.

7) They cultivate a growth mindset

Above all, those who rise from lower-income backgrounds to high earners cultivate a growth mindset.

They believe in their ability to learn, grow, and improve. They see potential where others see limitations.

This mindset is crucial in their journey towards financial success.

It encourages them to embrace challenges, persist in the face of setbacks, see effort as a path to mastery, and learn from criticism.

A growth mindset empowers them to believe that they can shape their future and achieve their financial goals, no matter where they started.

It’s the driving force behind their ambition, resilience, and success.

Cultivate a growth mindset. Believe in your ability to learn and grow.

You have the power to shape your own future, and with the right mindset, there’s no limit to what you can achieve.

Final thoughts: It’s all about the journey

The path from lower-income backgrounds to high earnings isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon. It entails a journey of personal growth, resilience, and determination.

These seven habits aren’t just about financial success; they’re about evolving into the best version of yourself.

They’re about embracing the potential within you and leveraging it to its fullest extent.

Bear in mind that every journey begins with a single step.

If you’re currently in a lower-income bracket, don’t be disheartened. The most remarkable rags-to-riches stories began where you are right now.

Remember the words of the renowned self-made millionaire and author, Jim Rohn, “Your level of success will rarely exceed your level of personal development.”

So, start cultivating these habits today.

Prioritize education, embrace frugality, network effectively, set clear goals, take calculated risks, be persistent and resilient, and above all, foster a growth mindset.

The journey towards financial success may be challenging and long-winded, but with these habits in your arsenal, it’s not impossible.

Reflect on these insights—let them guide you on your way to becoming a high earner. After all, it’s all about the journey.