Hey I’m new here and haven’t even received my first order yet, but I’ve been reading this section and am particularly interested in posts on alpha behavior.
I notice however that there is a lack of discussion on how the alpha archetype should handle overt criticism. My natural response would be to let it roll off my back, and let the offender know where I disagree and where maybe I can in fact use a little work. There’s nothing wrong with some feedback, right?
But doesn’t getting criticized in a group setting lower your status? Maybe taking it in stride is the “mature” thing to do, but is it the “alpha” thing to do?
Can anyone imagine how an alpha male should react to criticism from friends?
In my humble opinion what an Alpha male does to a critique of himself depends on what is said and how it’s said.
Alpha always has a response back.
If you bust my balls jokingly. I bust right back.
If you say I’m a douche in a mean way…I say Ohhhh yeah you mothers favorite, cause I was up in her last night looking him dead in the eye.
If someone hits a real nerve deep inside and what they say is actually true? And I’m acting like an asshole.. I say ya know what you’re right. I own the critique. I diffuse it outloud.
No, control of the interaction is Alpha. The President of the United States is about as top dog alpha as they come. You’re the Pres? it means you managed to get at least 51% of a population of 300 million to say “You’re our new leader”
What’s the point of that fact? The president has a cabinet, people that advise and even criticize him. And he CHOSE them to have that job specifically for that purpose. But make no mistake, he controls the interaction and everyone knows who’s the one in charge.
How do you handle it when somebody criticizes you?, particularly in public? Well consider this. Listen to their opinion. You have the stronger frame and personal reality. In your world their words don’t effect your value.
This is not to say their words HAVE no value, just that YOU are not changed in any case. Listen calmly and patiently, then turn it into an interview. Ask them what would be better or an improvement. Show a little interest and throw some hypotheticals to test the integrity of their opinion or idea. After listning, then agree to think about what they’ve said, and compliment them on the thought they put into the idea or opinion.
Now, the compliment is the true statement here. Who is more Alpha, the one giving approval, or the one seeking/accepting it?