The term ‘sigma man’ is gaining more and more strength in social networks and online forums. It is a concept used to describe a kind of masculinity that contrasts with the well-known alpha male’.
Also know as ‘lonely wolf’, the sigma is defined as a cunning, highly independent man, with extreme self-confidence. He is resilient, popular but introverted, cold, insensitive, quiet, and often perceived as successful.
‘Sigma mals’ are not exactly new. In fact, relevant personalities from all fields and countless fictional characters can be considered within this category.
Among the famous sigma men we can mention James Bond, Sherlock Holmes, Batman and Don Draper from the series Mad Men. Also the central roles of The wolf of Wall Street and American Psychointerpreted respectively by Leonardo Dicaprio and Christian balewho curiously also qualify as ‘sigma’ along with Keanu Reeves, Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos and Steve Jobs.
What is a sigma male?
Since the concept is relatively new and its popularity very recent, there is still no clear and precise definition of what a sigma man is.
The term is attributed to Theodore Robert Bealealias Vox Day, far-right activist and writer. According to the British media Daily Mailhe would have originated the phrase and also “coined the sociosexual hierarchy that presents the sigma as an equal to the alpha.”
Unlike the alpha man, however, the sigma man does not seek a hierarchical position. Instead, he interacts with people out of genuine interest or curiosity. Despite this, many brand them as ‘toxic’ in their personal and work relationships, due to their apparent indifference, detachment and disdain for authority.
Recognizing a sigma man can be difficult, since they do not seek to stand out or attract attention. Although certain distinctive traits have been detected in this form of masculinity, they are not exclusive, and can be found in other personality types.
Alpha male vs. sigma man: what’s the difference?
Most of us are familiar with the alpha male, that dominant type of man who seeks to stand out and goes after what he wants. But little is known about sigma male and therefore, to have a slightly clearer picture, it is worth noting some differences between the two.
Some traits that distinguish the alpha male are:
- You prefer to work in group situations in order to lead over other people and naturally rise to positions of power.
- He is sociable, charismatic and attractive to the people around him.
- You have strong self-confidence, but seek approval from others and constant validation.
Instead, the sigma man shows characteristics such as:
- He does not seek to dominate others or maintain a hierarchical position. In fact, they feel a certain dislike for authority, they do not like to receive orders from superiors and prefer to avoid groups, whether they are social or work.
- You are independent, self-sufficient and highly value freedom. Sigma like to live in their own way and at their own pace.
- He is introverted, reserved and prefers solitude. These men enjoy spending time by themselves and don’t need to be around other people constantly.
- He is highly self-confident. Like alphas, sigmas are also very self-confident (sometimes too much), but sigmas do not seek validation from others or rely on others’ approval to make decisions.
- Connects with people out of genuine interest or curiosity. Their interpersonal treatment is usually authentic, since they do not seek to dominate others or take advantage of them.
It should be remembered that each person is unique and someone should not be pigeonholed or labeled as a sigma man just because they have some of these characteristics.
How is the personality of the sigma evils?
Like alphas, sigma men are also ambitious, strong and show a lot of self-confidenceaccording to the portal Brilliant. But, at the same time, they have a introverted, independent and reserved personalityhence they prefer not to stand out and, if possible, even live outside of social dictates.
this kind of man tends to avoid authority and they do what is necessary to live in their own way and almost always go their own way. That’s why, are not comfortable in large groups and prefer the company of a small select group of close friends.
In social situations, they tend to isolate themselves and do not seek to interact with others, but they also do not reject company if they are approached.
The sigma are very analytical and objectiveThey spend a good time thinking about the details of situations and relationships. However, they prefer to focus on their personal and professional goals.
When they have a goal, they seldom stray from the path and don’t care about the opinions of others. On the other hand, they have flexible and open mindedfor what they are able to easily adapt to changes and new situations.
Since they are ‘lone wolves’, they know how to handle loneliness very well, they are silent, reflective and contemplative. Personal space is practically vital for a sigma man.
What is a sigma man like in business and work?
At work, they turn out to be professionals very productive and efficientalthough his disdain for authority makes them not adjust to traditional jobs.
For this reason, they usually choose the self employmentsome job and/or professions that can be exercised independently. Or, since they don’t like answering to a boss, they are simply born entrepreneurs.
Some characteristics that are attributed to a sigma man in business are:
- Independence. Sigma men highly value the freedom to make decisions for themselves and conflict when they depend on the approval of others. In the end, they tend to do what their hearts tell them to do and don’t usually stay in one job for long.
- Focus on personal goals. These men focus on their own goals, which are not always aligned with the interests of the group, the couple, the family, or the company.
- Cunning and intelligence. Sigmas have the ability to digest, analyze, and filter the right information effectively. It can be said that they ‘know how to play their cards’, as they reflect on each situation from various angles before making decisions. They like to take time to reflect and plan their strategies and use the elements to their advantage.
- Difficulty working in a team. Sigma work towards their goals autonomously, do not care about the opinions of others and rarely accept help, although people often offer it because of their magnetism.
Although there are not many studies on this form of masculinity, it is speculated that alpha male males may view sigma males as a threat to their leadership position.
Meanwhile, sigma mals may view alpha males as overly aggressive and sociable. However, these are only speculations and there is no conclusive research on the matter.
Do you know a sigma man? You are one? Although the concept has become very controversial, just like any type of personality it has advantages and disadvantages in all fields, including business. Remember that each individual is unique and these traits do not define a person: alpha, beta, gamma or sigma, you are you.
Mairem Del Rio Addicted to watching series and movies, doing (a little) exercise and changing my hair color. I am also a journalist, with more than 16 years of experience and dedicated 100% to digital media since 2011. I have been from a reporter and community manager, to an editor in various media and agencies. My areas of expertise are as diverse as they are contrasting: entertainment, travel, lifestyle, health, business, and finance. Now I am focused on the entrepreneurial ecosystem, cryptocurrencies, NFTs, metaverses and the promising cannabis industry in Mexico.