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About this quote

What does it mean?
Rejection of membership in groups that lower standards by accepting anyone.
In plain terms
I won't join a club that accepts me as a member.
What can you take from it?
Standards matter more than belonging.

Where it applies

  • joining organizations
  • professional networks
  • social groups

Putting it to work

  • evaluate group values before joining
  • set personal standards
  • walk away from compromise

Questions to consider

  • What standards do you hold for groups you join?
  • Does belonging require compromising your values?

Another view

Exclusivity can sometimes lead to unhealthy elitism.

More from Groucho Marx

  1. I sent the club a wire stating, 'PLEASE ACCEPT MY RESIGNATION. I DON'T WANT TO BELONG TO ANY CLUB THAT WILL ACCEPT PEOPLE LIKE ME AS A MEMBER'.

    Permalink to quote #7

  2. No-one is completely unhappy at the failure of his best friend.

    Permalink to quote #9

  3. Although it is generally known, I think it's about time to announce that I was born at a very early age.

    Permalink to quote #6

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