The other day, I had an interesting conversation with a colleague. We were reflecting on the low productivity and financial stagnation that seems to characterize large parts of our population. He said something that struck me:
> “There are people who succeed despite the harsh environment. They face the same problems but somehow rise above them.”
He went on to tell me that these individuals are known as positive deviants. The term immediately caught my attention. I was intrigued and decided to do some more research about it. What I discovered challenged my thinking — especially when I began to reflect on how this concept could apply to personal finance.
What Is Positive Deviance?
Positive deviance refers to individuals or groups within a community who achieve better outcomes than their peers, even though they face the same challenges and have access to the same resources. These people don’t rely on luck or special opportunities — they simply do things differently and better.
This concept has been used in public health, education, and business. But the more I thought about it, the more I saw how powerful it could be in the financial lives of everyday people.
Positive Deviance in Personal Finance
Let’s say two people live in the same town and both earn UGX 1 million per month. One is drowning in debt, always borrowing and barely making ends meet. The other has savings, is paying school fees with ease, and is quietly investing in a side business.
What’s the difference?
The second person is a financial positive deviant — someone who’s adopted habits and strategies that are uncommon but effective.
What Financial Positive Deviants Do Differently
Here are some common traits I’ve observed (and researched) among people who manage their finances well despite average or low incomes:
1. They Budget with Purpose
They track every shilling and assign money to specific goals. Whether they use notebooks, mobile apps, or simple envelopes, they know where their money goes.
2. They Save First, Not Last
They “pay themselves first” — saving money before spending on anything else. Even UGX 5,000 a week can grow into something meaningful.
3. They Spend with Intention
They avoid pressure to impress. They understand the difference between looking rich and being financially secure.
4. They Take Smart, Small Risks
They experiment with low-cost side businesses, invest in SACCOs or small assets, and learn from mistakes instead of fearing them.
5. They Keep Learning and are Curious
They read books, attend financial literacy workshops, and seek out content that helps them grow — and they apply what they learn.
How You Can Become a Positive Deviant
Becoming a positive deviant doesn’t mean being perfect. It means choosing to behave differently in ways that lead to better financial results — even when no one else around you is doing the same.
Step 1: Shift Your Mindset
Believe that change is possible. Don’t let your past or current circumstances define your future.
Step 2: Find and Learn from Local Role Models
Look around. Who is thriving financially in your circle? Ask them how they manage money. Listen and learn.
Step 3: Break Free from Harmful Norms
Say no to unnecessary spending. Say no to trying to keep up with friends, trends, or unrealistic expectations.
Step 4: Start Small, Stay Consistent
Don’t wait for big money. Start with what you have and grow from there. Consistency beats intensity.
Step 5: Take Action
Open a savings account. Start tracking expenses. Begin a simple side hustle. Do something today.
Step 6: Multiply the Impact
Once you’ve started making progress, share what you’ve learned. Help a friend. Teach a group. Start a conversation. Positive deviance spreads when it’s visible.
A Biblical Reflection
This reminds me of Luke 16:10:
> “Whoever is faithful with little will also be faithful with much.”
Positive deviants are those who practice faithful stewardship — they make wise choices even with limited resources. And because of their faithfulness, they grow.
Final Thoughts
In a country where financial hardship is all too common, the concept of positive deviance offers hope. The solutions to many of our financial struggles already exist — not in books or foreign programs, but in our own communities.
People are already succeeding under the same difficult conditions. We just need to find them, learn from them, and become them.
Maybe that person is you.
Maybe that change begins today.
Have you met a financial positive deviant in your life? Or are you becoming one? Share your experience in the comments — your story could inspire someone else to begin their transformation.
Unlock your true potential 