People who grow up rich often try to blend in with the rest of us, acting like they didn’t grow up in a privileged position. However, they usually don’t realize that we’re not falling for it and that their privilege is blindingly clear. This article takes a look at why this is through various tell-tale signs of someone being raised in wealth.
Confidence in All Social Situations
To start things off, one of the most subtle signs that someone was raised in wealth is if they exude confidence at formal events or even just at casual gatherings. As the SPSP reveals, rich people tend to have a natural sense of self-assurance, so if wealth runs in the family, so does confidence.
An Appreciation for Fine Dining
Someone who grew up in an affluent household likely has a refined taste palate. Beans on toast just doesn’t cut the mustard; they know their way around a gourmet menu and may have a taste for exotic dishes. Ultimately, dining at high-end restaurants is second nature, because affording it has never been a concern to them.
Knowledge of High-Quality Brands
A person who was raised in wealth is usually familiar with high-end brands from a young age. Luxury fashion, automobiles, and home decor brands were likely staples of their homes, while everyday “designer” brands that most of us know won’t appeal to them. Once again, this simply comes down to their (or their parents’) expensive taste.
Travel Savvy from a Young Age
Travel is something that most of us don’t get to experience until we’re older, and even then, it might just be a cheap trip to Majorca. Meanwhile, people who grew up rich have often traveled all around the globe and in style, too. Figuring out airports or knowing how to pack efficiently isn’t difficult for them because, frankly, they’ve had more holidays in their life than they have had jobs.
A Comfort with Networking
Another sign that someone was raised wealthy is if networking comes naturally to them. They are often well-connected, having been introduced to influential people throughout their lives by their parents and friends. This ease with forming professional and social connections is a skill that serves them well in adulthood, but it’s important to note that they likely didn’t earn it themselves.
An Eye for Art and Culture
Growing up surrounded by art and culture, rich people have a keen appreciation for the finer things in life. They recognize famous paintings, understand the nuances of classical music, and generally appreciate things that the average Joe doesn’t. However, it’s important to note that many rich people may see art as more of an investment rather than a passion.
Private Education Background
One of the most common markers of growing up with wealth in the UK is if someone attended private school as a child, giving them an educational experience that was far superior to the rest of us. They likely received a rigorous academic foundation, combined with access to exclusive extracurricular activities, shaping them into well-rounded (albeit snobby, sheltered, and pompous) individuals.
Multilingual Abilities
It’s very common for British people raised in wealth to be exposed to multiple languages from an early age due to their previously mentioned travel savviness. They might even have mastered these languages through private tutors or international schooling, which undeniably enhances their communication abilities and adds to their cultural perspectives later in life.
A Tendency to Understate Wealth
Us Brits are naturally modest, so it shouldn’t be surprising to learn that those who were raised in wealth don’t feel the need to flaunt their affluence. Instead, they may choose understated elegance over flashy displays; this subtlety can be seen in their fashion choices, their homes, and even their vehicles, where quality and craftsmanship are prioritized over overt displays of wealth.
Strong Sense of Financial Literacy
Another benefit to being raised by a wealthy family is receiving an early education in financial management. They likely understand investment strategies, the importance of saving, and how to manage their assets effectively. Sadly, those with poorer backgrounds likely learned different lessons, such as how to budget effectively and cut costs.
Awareness of Social Etiquette
Good manners and proper etiquette are often instilled from a young age in affluent families. They are likely well-versed in table manners, formal greetings, and fancy dress. This awareness of social etiquette makes them comfortable in high-society settings, but it might look them look somewhat pretencious when they mingle with regular middle or lower-class brits.
A Preference for Personalized Services
You shouldn’t expect those raised in wealth to use run-of-the-mill services, as they’re far more accustomed to premium and personalized options. This might involve a custom-tailored suit or a private concierge service; regardless, they value this exclusivity and attention to detail highly.
Familiarity with Legacy Planning
For most of us, legacy is something we won’t think about until at least middle age, but due to the assets at stake, it’s a significant concern for people growing up in wealthy families. Their parents will teach them the importance of planning for future generations, and therefore, they’ll generally be familiar with terms like trusts, estates, and philanthropic endeavors.
Comfort with Philanthropy
Speaking of philanthropy, such charitable efforts are often common in wealthy families, leading those raised in such environments to view giving back as a natural part of life. They may be involved in charitable activities or sit on the boards of nonprofits, seeing philanthropy not just as a duty but as a privilege.
A Taste for Unique Experiences
Just as with services, rather than seeking out popular trends, inherently rich people often gravitate towards unique, bespoke experiences, such as private tours, bespoke vacations, or luxurious one-off Airbnb. It’s easy for us regular folk to envy this lifestyle, but c’mon–you’d do the same if you were minted.
An Innate Understanding of Social Hierarchies
Thankfully, class system isn’t really a thing in the UK anymore, but an exception is those who grew up in wealthy circles, who are often exposed to social hierarchies. They are aware of the nuances of class and status, and how these influence relationships and opportunities. Frankly, most people can agree that this only causes division and negativity.
Distinctive Sense of Style
Raised with access to the best in fashion, rich kids will grow up to have a distinctive sense of style. Their wardrobe is likely filled with timeless pieces rather than fleeting trends, reflecting a deep understanding of quality and design. So, watch out for such elegance, as it’s often a subtle indicator of someone’s affluent upbringing.
A Well-Curated Home Environment
It probably won’t be too surprising to learn that the homes of those raised in wealth tend to reflect a well-curated environment, with carefully selected furniture, art, and decor. They are accustomed to living in spaces that prioritize comfort, aesthetics, and functionality, but that doesn’t necessarily make their homes any cozier.
Emphasis on Health and Wellness
It’s only natural that when you grow up rich, you’ll hold a great emphasis on health and wellness. You probably don’t rely on work for your income and can, therefore, take your time in life to focus on important things, such as physical and mental health, hobbies, and skincare. Sadly, poorer families are often too busy working to find the time for such important details.
Lifelong Love of Learning
As other points in this list have touched on, a final sign that someone was raised in wealth is if they never stopped learning. They have a lifelong love for education, constantly seeking out knowledge and self-improvement. This intellectual curiosity is a lasting trait nurtured by an upbringing that emphasizes the importance of knowledge.