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The Sigma Male: Traits, Characteristics & FAQs

You have most likely heard the term “sigma male” before, and wondered what on Earth that even means, and what personality traits make him unique.

In this blog post we are going to break down what a sigma male is. We will talk about male archetypes, in particular the alpha male archetype vs the sigma male archetype, and discuss their differences.

We will also list some of the signs and characteristics of a sigma male.

And lastly, we will see whether you can see yourself as the lone wolf!

Sigma Males

Most of us grow up always wanting to be the alpha male.

It just sounds and seems like the male to be.

Badass.

In control.

Top dog.

These are the traits we naturally attach to being an alpha male.

But did you know that in terms of status, sigma and alpha stand right next to one another?

As far as rankings go, they are very alike. Yet there are so many differences too.

Keep reading to find out what a sigma male is, how he differs to an alpha male, and the most common signs that you might just be a sigma!

Definition: What is A Sigma Male?

The archetypal sigma male is a term used to describe a man who can rely upon himself, is successful, self-reliant and feels comfortable spending time alone.

Sigma males are seen as lone wolves – although not in the negative way a lot of us tend to think of “lone” people.

As we mentioned above, most of you will most likely put alpha males at the top of hierarchy.

And you most likely are correct.

However, that does not mean that a sigma male is beneath an alpha.

Actually, alpha and sigma males are pretty equal.

The major difference being that sigma males like to live their lives outside of the normal hierarchy structure.

They neither want to lead nor follow, but rather be on their own.

Even if a sigma male has all the abilities to lead, or to be the one in a social group of people that everyone admires, they prefer to be away from all of that.

A sigma male can walk alone, and be 100% comfortable doing his own thing, in his own way.

Another really interesting trait which is found amongst sigmas is that they never require validation by others.

This could be in the form of a new job title, or having a title within a community.

Many refer to sigmas as “lone wolves” or “lone wanderers”.

Sigma Male vs Alpha Male

sigma male vs alpha male

Just like the alpha, the sigma is seen in the eyes of others as someone with high status.

There are, however, a few noticeable and obvious differences between sigma and alpha males.

But there are also quite a few common traits which both sigmas and alphas share.

Let’s breakdown some of the common traits and differences between sigma males and alpha males.

Common Traits Between Sigmas & Alphas

Some common similarities between sigma and alpha males include:

  • Self confidence is at a high level
  • Seen as attractive by others
  • Posses leadership qualities
  • High level of intelligence

Sigma males could go down the path of becoming alpha males if they chose to. They definitely possess the qualities needed.

But for most, the life of a sigma is just too much of an attractive way of life to give up.

Sigma males do not want to be in the position of the alpha.

They don’t want to be at the top of some sort of social ladder, where many people look up to him.

Main Differences Between Sigmas & Alphas

Below are a few ways in which sigma males are different to alpha males:

  • Sigma has no reason to maintain any type of appearance
  • More comfortable being alone for longer periods of time
  • No need to rise to the top of any social ladder
  • A lot more independent
  • Great at listening to what others have to say
  • Does not seek out a lot of friends. Sigmas carefully select a few friends
  • Not invested in making and maintaining tribal connections
  • Sigma thinks freely and independently

The differences are pretty obvious, but they are still interesting.

If you think you might be a sigma male, then keep on reading!

alpha male vs sigma male

Is A Sigma Male Better Than An Alpha Male?

As you will see in the diagram below shortly, it’s hard to say whether a sigma male is better than an alpha male.

This is because whilst the alpha male sits at the top of the social sexual hierarchy, the sigma male stays completely out of the social hierarchy by choice.

Where On The Socio Sexual Hierarchy Does The Sigma Male Fit?

Whilst the sigma male is seen as a “lone wolf”, if you take a look at the graphic below, you’ll see that he is equal to the alpha male.

Socio Sexual Hierarchy Diagram

Just because you like to march to the beta of your drum, and prefer to stay away from big social groups and trying to be seen as the leader, does not mean you cannot be top dog.

The graphic above really simply illustrates how an alpha and sigma are on the same level.

If you aren’t sure whether you think you might be a sigma or alpha, then check out some of the common signs you might just be a sigma.

The Main Traits Of A Sigma Male

Below are a few signs of sigma men.

You might be able to use these signs and traits to determine if you are a sigma male or not.

Let’s get cracking!

#1: Does Not Conform

We start off with definitely one of the big traits of all sigma males.

They do not like to conform, and do things the way they feel they should.

You won’t see a sigma following a leader, or being happily told what to do on a daily basis.

On top of that, sigmas don’t follow the crowd.

They actually often tend to go the other way, and make this decision solely based on their honest thoughts.

Sigma male trait

No outside pressures will affect a sigma’s decision.

They stay true to their own, internal values and beliefs.

Bottom line is, a sigma won’t go down a path or follow something because their friends or family are expecting that of them.

#2: Self Sufficient

Being self sufficient is one of the strongest traits found in any sigma.

Sigmas enjoy wandering off by themselves, often travelling the world or just being alone in strange places for weeks at a time.

They have the ability to adapt and feel really comfortable in any of these situations or environments.

No one feeds them.

No one gives them money.

They are their own men.

They submit to no one, and go out and get something whenever needed.

They truly are “lone wolves”, and I mean that in a high regard!

#3: Treat People Equally

Sigma males tend to get along with people from all different social levels.

They are genuine when engaging with other people, no matter how high or low the people are on the social ladder.

Whereas an alpha male wants to exert a form of dominance or get something out of someone, sigmas are happy to just treat people all as equals.

#4: Adaptable

This one goes hand in hand with being self sufficient.

When a sigma finds himself in a new, strange situation, he can quickly adapt and make himself comfortable.

Regardless of the company he finds himself in, he can easily go with the flow and be part of the conversation or situation.

An alpha differs in this situation.

He isn’t as comfortable being placed into any social situation, especially if it involves people that he may see as a threat.

So if a sigma finds himself at a table filled with various personalities, he can easily navigate his way around that.

And an alpha? Not so much.

#5: Comfortable Being Alone

Whilst the term “lone wolf” is often used to describe sigma males, it is often misunderstood.

Sigma Males

A sigma is only a “lone wolf” to the degree that he is 100% comfortable with his own company, no matter where he is.

I actually think this is a skill more men need to learn.

Being alone and being completely comfortable whilst being alone is an awesome skill that really allows you and your mind a little down time.

#6: Self Aware

As sigmas have made the decision not to join the roles expected of them within a normal hierarchy, they have become a lot more self aware, and know what they want out of life.

Sigmas know what they are good at, what they are not good at, and what they want to do in life.

If they ever go wrong, they have the quick ability to self-correct.

This is due to their high level of self awareness.

#7: Small, Close Social Circles

Sigma males choose to rather have a really close circle of friends who they can trust 100%, instead of hanging out with larger crowds.

sigma male traits

Usually, their friends see life the same way they do.

This has nothing to do with being anti social, rather they just prefer to have a select few set of friends.

#8: Don’t Seek Attention

Attention is never required for a sigma male.

Sigmas prefer to blend in, and often step into the background where they can rather observe and listen to any given situation.

#9: Not Driven By Outside Validation

Sigmas don’t strive for validation or getting a pat on the back.

This may be at their workplace, or just in life in general.

They do not want to be in the limelight.

In fact, you could go as far as saying that sigma males want to be invisible.

They don’t do a job to be told how great or poorly they did.

They don’t travel to other places across the globe to be able to brag about it.

Sigmas live their lives, based on how they want to.

#10: Quiet

This is definitely a predictable trait of a sigma male, especially considering the above information.

As sigmas prefer to stand back and listen and observe, they tend to be a bit more held back when speaking.

This isn’t due to the fact that they are shy or unsocial.

It’s more to do with the fact that they prefer to think deeply before speaking.

#11: Self Priority

This might come across as selfish to a certain degree, but it actually isn’t.

A sigma male has his own personal goals and objectives, and will work hard to achieve these goals.

Whereas an alpha also does have goals and objectives, he would often prioritize highly valued people of their social circle over themselves.

A sigma just wants to be left alone, and work on his dreams and aspirations.

They don’t care how they are perceived by others.

They just want to achieve whatever it is he sets out to achieve.

#12: Don’t Get Jealous

I recently read an article about women dating sigma men, and the jealousy topic was brought up.

In general, sigma males are not the jealous type.

This is down to the fact that they have faith in their decision making, and they too enjoy spending time alone.

A sigma male will give his partner space, as he too enjoys this same space.

#13: Introvert

The sigma is more introverted than the alpha male.

Sigma guys prefer spending time alone rather than being in crowds all the time. Whilst they are comfortable being in social groups, they often choose to spend time alone.

Being alone gives sigma guys time to think more, and be more in tune with his thoughts and feelings.

#14: Good Listener

If you think about when you are in a group conversation with an alpha, he usually tends to try and always dominate the conversation.

A sigma, on the other hand, will usually rather listen and give a thoughtful response.

Some might see sigmas as being more of the “silent type”. However, they just seem to be better listeners, intently listening to someone, and giving you his full attention.

Why Do Girls Like Sigma Men?

Why Do Girls Like Sigma Men

Women in general are drawn to sigma men for a number of reasons.

As you will know by now after reading this article, a sigma man is a confident, comfortable and self sufficient man who needs no external validation whatsoever.

This also means that he is willing to walk away from situations which he doesn’t want or need.

This in itself is extremely attractive to women.

Females like a confident guy who is independent, and this shows both of those traits.

Sigmas also are not jealous, clingy or needy. These traits alone make them desirable.

On top of all of that, a sigma is somewhat mysterious. And women like this too!

Benefits Of Being Sigma Male

Walking your very own path, not following the crowds and being a bit of a “lone wolf” definitely has many benefits.

For me personally, there are two really big benefits that are clear.

#1: Freedom

Freedom is definitely the biggest benefit that comes from being a sigma.

Sigma Males Benefits

When you don’t even care to pay attention to what other people think about you or the way you live your life, you definitely will feel a lot more freedom.

Both mentally, emotionally and probably physically too.

The sigma lives life on his own terms, and never bends to what others might have to say.

This is the ultimate freedom – going about life on your terms 100%.

Draw

#2: Efficient

As a sigma, you don’t live life based on what is expected of you.

You don’t keep up with the crowd. Nor do you follow the crowd in any way, shape or form.

And with this comes a high level of efficiency.

You get shit done.

And you get shit done quickly.

This is due to the fact that you are used to being your own captain, and trying to achieve anything you set your sights on.

Drawbacks Of Being A Sigma Male

Although there are a few benefits that come with being a sigma, there are also a few drawbacks.

You could probably imagine what some of these drawbacks might be, but for this article I want to focus on the main drawback of being a sigma male – you have no tribe, so it can get lonely.

Sigmas by definition do not need a tribe. They don’t have to be the leader of the pack. They are their own pack.

And this is great.

But it can also get lonely.

It’s kind of funny that the best thing about being a sigma and the worst thing is the same – you are a lone wolf.

But remember you can transition and create a tribe.

Just because you are a lone wolf today doesn’t mean it has to be like this for life.

Sometimes we need to live the sigma male lifestyle for a bit, though, in order to focus on what we want to achieve in life.

Can You Go From Alpha Male to Sigma Male?

I honestly do believe you can.

We are not ever supposed to constantly be the same man.

Time happens.

Things happen.

And people change.

I think I can speak from personal experience in saying that you can rather easily, without even knowing it, go from being more of an alpha male to a sigma male.

Up until a few years ago, I had many traits that would say I leant more towards being an alpha.

But I then started travelling and backpacking solo for about two years, and things started changing without me even noticing.

I started enjoying being alone more, I loved the peace and quiet, and my thoughts about my own life became more clear.

Ever since then, I have been on the path to becoming a sigma male.

And I love it!

Sigma Male

Who Are Some Famous Sigma Males?

Believe it or not, but there are actually quite a few famous guys out there who would fall under the category of being a sigma man.

Now it’s hard to know for sure every single famous sigma male, but below we have put 7 of the most wel known sigmas from our time.

1. Steve Jobs

Steve Jobs requires no introdcution.

He is known as one of the founders of Apple, which has had a huge impact on all of our lives.

Jobs would often go against the grain, and would do things his way.

2. Keanu Reeves

For all of you fans out there that love his movies, it’s pretty obvious to see that he is sigma. Especially if you have watched his interviews.

He is an extremely intriguing person, and we don’t actually know that much about his personal life.

Although he is often spotted just chilling out and about alone.

If you have seen the John Wick films, then you’ll definitely be able to draw a line between what the sigma male archetype is, and John Wick himself.

3. Muhammad Ali

Ali, the most famous boxer to ever live, was also a sigma male.

He often went against the norm.

He refused to join the army, and would speak out against discrimination a lot.

4. David Bowie

David Bowie was one of the most famous musicians of recent times.

He was also somewhat mysterious, and many things he did resembled traits of a sigma.

5. Clint Eastwood

The famous actor and director, Clint Eastwood is definitely a guy who has always marched to the beat of his own drum.

He is over 90 years of age, but still working and going strong!

6. Bruce Lee

We all know Mr Lee as the ultimate martial arts legend.

And on top of that, his interviews have become popular with the way he viewed life.

He was also somewhat that followed and did exactly what he believed to be right, and not what was expected of him.

7. Tom Cruise

Tom Cruise, probably the biggest movie star of our generation, is also a sigma male.

Even though he is such a mega star, he does keep a lot to himself.

Epic Quotes About Being A Sigma Male

We all love quotes.

Whether it’s morning coffee quotes, quotes about manhood, or even a few epic inspirational quotes, there can never be enough!

Below are a few of the best sigma male quotes I could find:

“Solitude is where one discovers one is not alone.”

Marty Rubin

“There is a society in the deepest solitude.”

Isaac D’Israeli

“Be a loner. That gives you time to wonder, to search for truth. Have holy curiosity. Make your life worth living.”

Albert Einstein

“It is only alone, truly alone that one bursts apart, springs forth.”

Maria Isabel Barreno

“Whosoever is delighted in their own solitude is either a wild beast or a god.”

Aristotle

“If you’re lonely when you are alone, you’re in bad company.”

Jean-Paul Sartre

“I was told I was dangerous. I asked why. They said because I don’t need anyone.”

“The more powerful and original a mind, the more it will incline towards the religion of solitude.”

Aldous Huxley

Conclusion

The archetype of the sigma male is really interesting, and definitely resonates with some people.

If you honestly think that you can relate to being a sigma male, then that’s awesome.

It’s not for everyone.

But if you truly feel that the sigma male archetype is what you are all about, then lean into it and embrace it.

Sigmas are awesome.