In that case, should you try to fake your own situation as to not get pity or should you be honest? When I encounter people who are financially ahead than me I just think that it will be me someday... That I will reach that level too where I would be able to buy whatever they can. So basically I try to make them my inspiration. Do you take inspiration from the rich people or do they make you feel worse?
Firstly, I want to say that money does not hide. Once you have it, people must see it. No matter how low you try to okay, a little bit of it will show off because you wouldn't starve yourself. Secondly, there is no news bragging about your financial possession, leaving calm and building slowly is the best for me.
So the point is, I wouldn't talk about my financial level, but if anyone asks me, I will only say am getting better, that's just it. But also put in mind that a stranger wouldn't ask you about your financial level, so it's only close friends or relatives that can ask such questions. Ans sharing your way up as per work wouldn't be a bad idea. It's all help.
If I meet people who are better than me, I would calmly use them as a point of encouragement to work harder and grow. For me, it's also an avenue for me to learn better and grow. Seeking for advice and what to do to become better is very necessary.