I Grew Up Poor: Here Are the 3 Best Things I Buy Now That I Have Money

Growing up poor can be a harsh reality — and it’s something that you don’t forget even if you become financially stable later in life. Even so, getting to the point where you have plenty of money in the bank offers you an opportunity to spend on things you’ve never been able to.

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But what does someone who had to live through poverty actually desire once their bank account is in the black? As an example, here’s a rags-to-riches story and what this wealthy entrepreneur now chooses to spend his money on.

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Growing Up Poor

Daniel Meursing, the CEO and founder of Premier Staff , told us that during his childhood, he lived in a cramped, one-bedroom apartment in East Los Angeles, shared by a family of five — and money was scarce.

“I vividly remember the embarrassment of using food stamps at the grocery store, trying to hide them from my classmates who might be nearby,” he recounted. “We never went on vacations, never had new clothes (hand-me-downs were the norm), and forget about any kind of entertainment that cost money. Even a trip to McDonald’s was a rare luxury, reserved for the most special occasions.”

He continued, “But perhaps the most painful memory was watching my parents struggle. My dad worked two jobs, my mom cleaned houses on the side, and still, it never seemed to be enough. The weight of financial stress hung over our family like a dark cloud, coloring every aspect of our lives.”

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The Luxuries of Financial Stability

Meursing said that now he sometimes has to pinch himself to believe how much has changed. “The experiences and luxuries I enjoy now would have seemed like impossible dreams to my younger self.” Here are the three he enjoys the most.

Travel Experiences

“Travel has been one of the most transformative luxuries,” shared Meursing. “Growing up, the farthest we ever went was to visit family in San Diego. Now, I’ve had the privilege of exploring the world — from sipping champagne atop the Eiffel Tower to scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef. These experiences have broadened my horizons and given me a global perspective that informs both my personal life and my business decisions.”

Health and Wellness Products

“As a kid, healthcare was a last resort — we only went to the doctor if it was absolutely necessary,” said Meursing. “Now, I have a comprehensive health insurance plan, regular check-ups and even a personal trainer. I can afford to eat organic, nutrient-rich foods and take time for self-care practices like meditation and yoga.”

Financial Peace of Mind

The most impactful change for Meursing has been the freedom from constant financial stress.

“The ability to pay bills without worry, to have a safety net for emergencies and to plan for the future — these are luxuries that have transformed my mental and emotional well-being in ways I never could have imagined,” he explained.

Evolution of a Money Mindset

Meursing admitted that his perspective on spending and saving has undergone a dramatic shift since he has achieved financial stability.

“Growing up, money was always seen as scarce, something to be hoarded and protected at all costs,” he explained. “The idea of spending on anything beyond absolute necessities was foreign and even frightening. Now, I’ve learned to view money as a tool for creating value and improving quality of life both for myself and others. I’ve shifted from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset, understanding that money, when managed wisely, can create more opportunities and positive impact.”

Even so, Meursing said that he hasn’t forgotten the lessons of frugality and resourcefulness he learned in childhood.

“I still find myself comparison shopping and looking for deals, even when I can afford not to,” he admitted. “But now, instead of being driven by fear, these habits are about being a smart consumer and maximizing the value of my money.”

The Art of Mindful Splurging

Meursing is even able to splurge, albeit mindfully.

“While I’m generally cautious with spending, there are certain areas where I’m willing to splurge,” he explained. “Travel, as mentioned earlier, is a big one. I believe the perspective gained from experiencing different cultures is invaluable, both personally and professionally.”

Another area where Meursing is willing to invest is in continuous learning.

“Whether it’s attending high-level business conferences, hiring executive coaches or pursuing advanced degrees, I see these expenditures as investments in myself and my company’s future.”

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : I Grew Up Poor: Here Are the 3 Best Things I Buy Now That I Have Money