Class reunion Quote by Dan Ariely
““The good news is that we can sometimes control the “circles” around us, moving toward smaller circles that boost our relative happiness. If we are at our class reunion, and there's a “big circle” in the middle of the room with a drink in his hand, boasting of his big salary, we can consciously take several steps away and talk with someone else. If we are thinking of buying a new house, we can be selective about the open houses we go to, skipping the houses that are above our means. If we are thinking about buying a new car, we can focus on the models that we can afford, and so on. We””
About This Quote
Source Book: Predictably Irrational by Dan Ariely, 2008
We can deliberately choose smaller social circles to increase happiness, avoiding comparison with higher-status peers.
In simple terms: Choosing smaller groups can boost happiness.
Key Takeaway
Select environments that match your values and means.
Themes
happiness
social comparison
choice
self‑control
Mood
analytical
practical
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- social events
- housing market
- car buying
- career decisions
Key Concepts
Behavioral economics
social psychology
well‑being
Questions to Reflect On
- What circles currently influence your happiness?
- How do you balance comfort with growth?
A Different Perspective
Choosing smaller circles may limit exposure to diverse perspectives.
![“I believe we really became friends [with Larry Kramer] when we bonded at our fifteenth class reunion in 1972.” quote by Kevin Sessums](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/68c/kevin-sessums-9486_believe_i-believe-we-really-became-friends-with_642749.jpg)
![“[..] we human beings are ready and willing to steal something that does not explicitly reference monetary value - that is, something that lacks the face of a dead president.” quote by Dan Ariely](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a1f/dan-ariely-1899_funny_we-human-beings-are-ready-and-willing-to_4436.jpg)
