7 signs you’re a classy person (even though you don’t have much money)

Classiness isn’t defined by the size of your bank account, but by your manners and actions.

It’s about treating others with respect, carrying yourself with grace, and making ethical choices, regardless of how much money you have. You see, being classy isn’t about having expensive things. It’s about having the right attitudes and behaviors.

There are certain signs that reveal a person’s classiness, even if their wallet isn’t overflowing. And I’m here to spill the beans on these signs that will make you realize “Hey, I’m a classy person even though I don’t have much money!”

Let’s get started. 

1) You value manners

It’s not about possessing the latest Gucci bag or driving a fancy car. Being classy, in a lot of ways, is about respect and courtesy.

In the realm of class, etiquette is king. It’s how you treat others, whether they’re the waiter at your favorite restaurant, the cashier at your local grocery store, or your colleagues at work. It’s about saying “please” and “thank you”, listening attentively when others speak, and simply being polite.

Classy people understand that their behavior towards others speaks volumes about their character. They show respect not because of what they can get out of it, but because it’s the right thing to do.

2) You’re content with what you have

Not long ago, I found myself at a social gathering surrounded by people flashing designer clothes and expensive accessories. I was standing there in my simple outfit, feeling a bit out of place.

At one point, a woman turned to me and said, “I love your style. It’s so timeless and simple.” I thanked her, admitting that my outfit was carefully thrifted and not a product of high-end fashion. To my surprise, she seemed even more impressed.

This taught me a valuable lesson – being classy isn’t about having the priciest things; it’s about being content with what you have. It’s about finding joy in simplicity, appreciating what you’ve got, and not constantly yearning for more.

If you can look around at your life and feel a sense of satisfaction, even though you might not have the most expensive things, then congratulations! You’ve got class.

3) You practice humility

Did you know that the word “classy” finds its roots in the Latin term “classis”, which was used to categorize citizens by wealth? Interestingly, today’s definition of classiness has nothing to do with wealth and everything to do with character traits like humility.

Humility is one of the hallmarks of a classy person. It’s about recognizing your worth without feeling the need to constantly showcase it. It’s knowing that you don’t always have to be right, and that it’s okay to admit when you’re wrong.

A truly classy person doesn’t boast about their achievements or belittle others to feel superior. Instead, they let their actions speak for themselves. They understand that their worth is inherent and doesn’t need constant validation.

4) You’re generous with your time and kindness

Classiness isn’t all about what you own; it’s also about what you give. And I’m not talking about monetary donations or expensive gifts. The most valuable thing that you can give to others is your time and kindness.

Being a classy person means understanding that every individual you encounter is fighting their own battles. It means offering a listening ear to someone having a tough day or lending a helping hand to someone in need.

This willingness to give, to be kind, to help others without expecting anything in return, is a sign of true classiness. It shows that you value people over possessions and enriches your life in ways that money can’t buy.

5) You’re comfortable in your own skin

I spent a good chunk of my early 20s trying to fit into molds that others had created for me. I thought the key to being accepted was to emulate the popular trends, even if they didn’t resonate with me. It was exhausting, and deep down, I knew I was losing myself.

One day, I decided to take a step back and embrace who I truly am, quirks and all. And that’s when I realized being classy has a lot to do with being authentic.

Classy people don’t try to be someone they’re not. They don’t change their personality based on who they’re around or shy away from their unique traits. Instead, they embrace their individuality and feel comfortable in their own skin.

If you’ve let go of societal pressures and are true to yourself, that’s a huge sign of classiness. It shows you value authenticity over conformity, and that’s something money can’t buy.

6) You respect other people’s time

Time is one of the most precious commodities we have. It’s the one thing that, once spent, we can never get back. Classy people understand this and show respect for other people’s time.

Whether it’s being punctual for appointments, not canceling plans at the last minute, or not wasting someone’s time with unnecessary chatter, showing respect for others’ time is a sign of class.

It’s about understanding that other people have lives, responsibilities, and commitments just like you do. It’s acknowledging that their time is just as valuable as yours.

If you’re someone who always strives to be on time and respects other people’s schedules, you’re exhibiting a level of classiness that money can’t buy.

7) You’re consistently striving for self-improvement

The most important sign of a classy person is their constant pursuit of self-improvement. It’s not about being perfect, but about recognizing your flaws and working on them.

Whether it’s learning a new skill, expanding your knowledge, or working on your emotional intelligence, striving for self-improvement shows that you’re not content with stagnation.

It’s this relentless pursuit of becoming a better version of yourself that truly sets classy people apart. This willingness to grow and improve is the ultimate sign of classiness because it shows that you value personal development over materialistic gains.

Final thoughts: Classiness is a state of mind

Being classy is about respecting others, being true to yourself, cherishing what you have, and always striving to be better. It’s about humility, generosity, authenticity, and most importantly, treating others with respect and kindness.

The beauty of classiness is that it’s accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial status. It’s a state of mind, a way of life.

So if you’ve found yourself relating to these seven signs, give yourself a pat on the back. You’re a classy person. And remember, no amount of money can ever buy class. It’s something that you cultivate from within.

In the end, it’s not about how much money you make or what brand you wear. It’s about who you are as a person and how you treat others. That’s the true measure of classiness. So keep on striving to be the best you can be. Because that’s what truly sets you apart.