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34 Poor people's habits you should not stop, no matter how rich you get

Ishwar Jha

  1. Use stuff till it dies. Don’t replace it just because it’s old.
  2. Always ask: “Can I fix this?” before “Can I buy a new one?”
  3. Save every jar, box, and plastic bag—you’ll use it.
  4. Eat the leftovers. Then freeze what’s left of the leftovers.
  5. Stretch your meals—add rice, pasta, or lentils.
  6. Water down soap, shampoo, and detergent when it's low.
  7. Only buy what’s on sale or clearance. Full price is a scam.
  8. Budget like you're broke—even when you’re not.
  9. Cook in bulk, eat in portions.
  10. Shop secondhand. Thrift stores are treasure maps.
  11. Bring your own snacks and drinks everywhere.
  12. Reuse foil, bags, and containers. Rinse, repeat.
  13. Always check if there’s a coupon before you check out.
  14. Patch your jeans. Glue your shoes. Stretch your stuff.
  15. Pay the bills that get the lights cut off first.
  16. Never waste food—crusts, peels, scraps become something.
  17. Heat and AC only when absolutely necessary. Blankets and fans work.
  18. Eat before going out so you don't overpay for hunger.
  19. Say no to credit card debt. Period.
  20. Repurpose what’s broken. Broken mug? It's a planter now.
  21. Learn basic sewing. A stitch now saves cash later.
  22. Live small. A clutter-free life is a cheaper one.
  23. Don't replace what still works. Even if it’s ugly.
  24. Always carry water. It’s free and fills you up.
  25. Eat before you shop. Hunger makes bad money decisions.
  26. Accept help when offered. And pass it on when you can.
  27. Use public resources—libraries, parks, community centers.
  28. Practice gratitude. You don’t need more if you feel enough.
  29. Avoid buying to “treat yourself.” Rest, walk, talk instead.
  30. Wait 24 hours before any non-essential purchase.
  31. Don’t chase brands. Function wins every time.
  32. Keep lights off unless you need them.
  33. Find joy in cheap thrills: a walk, a game, a joke.
  34. Make things last—because every extra day saves money.

What other poor habits you follow to keep yourself happy, healthy and wise?