Alpha represents many things to many people. The foremost representation is alpha in the sense of a group - the leader, the king, the one we look up most to. It comes together with "male" easily, as the patriachy deeply entrenched in most cultures and certainly in the culture I live in. The alpha male immediately conjures a particular look - athletic, solidly built. It conjures a particular personality - confidence, competitive, self centred. It conjures a particular career - Chief Executive, Barrister, Surgeon. It conjures a particular environment - tailored suits, wealth, successful peers.
The world I live in is inhabited by many persons who may fit this bill - females and males alike, but sharing these traits nonetheless. Those around them will have several reactions - amongst them being impressed or envious - but certainly will react. They are impossible to subtly pass by in the corridor.
Lets define alpha differently - borrowing from the world of finance. Alpha is the measurable change in value demonstrated by an investment in comparison to the remainder of the market. Alpha, in essence, is the change that separates stellar from average.
Alpha is changing the world in a way greater than how the average person may. Alpha is the positive impact you have on your community, your world. Consider the types of people who have positively impacted the world the most. They conjure a particular look - voluminous eyes, slim built, scholarly appearing. They conjure a particular personality - kind, humble, determined, charismatic, dedicated. They conjure a particular career - philosopher, social leader, scientist. They conjure a particular environment - danger, crowds, the middle and working class.
The world I live in is also inhabited by many persons who fit this bill - females and males alike, and there is almost always only one reaction by those around them - admiration. They similarly have an unmistakable presence, and often their approach to their work brings out the humility of us all. People travelling in their sphere work with renewed dedication and begin to reflect the qualities that alpha has.
The world we live in needs to reward alpha - the positive change - socially, financially, politically. The children of the world need to look at those with Alpha and say "I want to be like that." It needs to encourage its development and status but it is difficult to achieve that, and will take time. The latter alpha is the one I aspire to, but it often seems too lofty and goals too far - but at least I know I am aiming for the right Alpha.
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