What do you think most influenced your money habits? Allowance? Parents?

I know a lot of people who think that allowance teaches children to be responsible with their money. I did not get an allowance as a young child. I had to ask my parents for money when I wanted something, and sometimes explain why I should be able to buy it. When I was in 8th grade I asked my dad for an allowance, and he said, “ok, think about it and let me know how much you think you should get.” I thought about it and came up with $20 a week. He agreed. We did that for several months. In 9th grade I got a job, and started paying for the majority of my own clothes and meals out with friends.

I think most of my money habits come from my parents, not from having an allowance when I was a teen for a few months, or working, but they were relatively frugal with money and so I am. My dad always told me, “money is important,” in a sea of always hearing money isn’t everything, and “in our society money gives you freedom and independence. It is not the things you can buy, it is being able to do what you want. Quit your job, travel, survive if something bad happens.”

My parents were very open about how much they made and how much the bills were as I got older, and talked about retirement goals.

I personally think that mostly we treat money like our parents did, or maybe go to the opposite extreme if we think they realy screwed up. It didn’t matter that I never did a chore or got an allowance, I still wanted, had to ask permission, to work at a young age (14) and always was a saver.

So, I’m curious did you get an allowance? Get paid for chores? Do you consider yourself a saver? What do you think most influenced your money habits?