First, graduate from high school. Second, get married before you have
children, and stay married. Third, work at any kind of job, even one
that starts out paying the minimum wage. And, finally, avoid engaging
in criminal behavior.

Excellent points. I've made these same points. I would also add - do not become addicted to drugs and/or alcohol. Choices and behaviors lead to poverty.

I guess the drug part could go under the umbrella of engaging in criminal behavior.