Having started out with 1/4A - 1/2A single channel pulse planes in the early '70s, we had to learn how to make do with the power we had, sometimes flying in 15 MPH winds. Then I graduated up the the A size planes. Got to the point where I could dead-stick land an aircraft on rudder only within a couple steps of myself. You learn to judge wind factors, sink rate, even flaring with rudder for a smooth landing (hit rudder just before touchdown to straighten it out and flare).
In a way bigger is better the older I get, I just bought myself a Hobby Lobby Miss Stik Senior, 55" span for geared 400 or .07 nitro. Was on sale for $24, their 36" Junior is $16 'til end of the month.
Staying out of trouble means knowing your flight envelope and staying within it. More power also means learning to throttle back, which some have difficulty with (even motorcyclists).