This is not the first I hear this. Of course, generally, the disadvantage shouldn’t be so great as to deal a fatal blow. A lot of successful people overcame disadvantage(s) to make it in life.
There are many adages to this effect. It’s not the size of the dog but the size of the fight. What doesn’t kill you make you stronger. It’s not how many time you fall, but whether you pick yourself up after each fall.
I tend to agree but of course I am biased. I am not born with a silver spoon so I used to scorn people who are born with more advantages in life than me. But as I become older and hopefully wiser, I no longer see things as so black or white. Some hardship is actually good for character building and discipline. You never know what is your limit until you are pushed to the brim.
Conversely, an advantage can also be a disadvantage. Think of the curse of natural resource. Or a child going through life without encountering much hardship. Sometimes it’s better to learn your lessons early in life. Some people grow old before they ever grow wise.
I think it’s worthwhile to put up some “artificial” obstacles as disadvantages to learn some life lessons in our prosperous society. Live within or even below your means. Do some vacation jobs even when you don’t need to. Volunteer. Go outside your comfort zone in work to learn more and challenge yourself. A positive growth mindset do wonders and is certainly an advantage in this uncertain time.