People often feel compelled to compare themselves with others primarily because they are concerned about their social standing. This desire for status is inherently tied to the notion of social comparison, where individuals assess their worth in relation to their peers. The quest for social validation and recognition can heavily influence behaviors and choices, highlighting our inherent need to belong and be valued in society.

In his book "The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less," Barry Schwartz explores how the pressure of social comparison can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction and anxiety. The constant evaluation against others creates a cycle of striving for higher status, which may not necessarily lead to greater happiness but rather to a constant state of competition. This illustrates the complexities of human desires and the psychological impact of our choices in a world that values status highly.