This quote underscores the importance of personal responsibility and growth. Being born poor is a circumstance beyond anyone’s control, and thus cannot be considered a mistake. However, if one remains poor until death, it implies a lack of effort or willingness to change one’s circumstances, which is what the quote refers to as a ‘mistake’.

The quote suggests that regardless of our starting point in life, we have the power and responsibility to shape our own destinies. It encourages us not to be victims of our circumstances, but to strive to overcome them. This is not to say that it is easy or straightforward to escape poverty, but rather it emphasizes the importance of ambition, hard work, and resilience in improving one’s life circumstances.

In today’s world, this quote is especially relevant given the increasing opportunities for self-improvement and upward mobility. With the advent of the internet, access to knowledge and resources is at an all-time high. Online education, remote work, and digital entrepreneurship are just a few avenues available for individuals to change their economic status.

In terms of personal development, this quote could be interpreted as a call to action to continuously strive for self-improvement and growth. It encourages individuals to take control of their lives, to set and pursue ambitious goals, and to never settle for less than they are capable of achieving. It also suggests that we should not let our past or our circumstances define us, but rather we should focus on shaping our future through our actions and decisions.

However, it’s crucial to note that this quote isn’t about wealth accumulation for its own sake. It’s about the pursuit of betterment, the striving for a life of dignity and fulfillment, and the refusal to accept a life of poverty and deprivation when there are opportunities for change.