in

Man 2.0

The funny thing about getting older is you learn that some of the things you used to hate are what you really need the most. Take rules, for example. No guys actually like rules. We spend most of our lives bending them, breaking them, and genuinely disrespecting them in every way possible… that is, until we realise our brazen behaviours have left us without a fundamental mentality that guides who we are and what we can become.
Many guys feel that rules are restrictive. In reality, the right rules give you freedom. They allow you to make time for what you really need to do to become an Alpha. That’s why we created the Alpha Rules. They sit just far enough outside of society’s rules that you can live the life you want, and yet they still provide guiding principles that anyone can respect.
But this list is only the beginning. We encourage you to create your own set of rules. Part of being an Alpha is setting your own standards and principles and sticking to them. So we encourage you to write down your rules and add to the list. But here’s the law: You must follow those rules. If you choose to set a standard by which you want to live, then you must actually follow through. Doing so will help ensure that your life doesn’t lead down a path to the ordinary.
But this list is only the beginning. We encourage you to create your own set of rules. Part of being an Alpha is setting your own standards and principles and sticking to them. So we encourage you to write down your rules and add to the list. But here’s the law: You must follow those rules. If you choose to set a standard by which you want to live, then you must actually follow through. Doing so will help ensure that your life doesn’t lead down a path to the ordinary.

Rule 1
Make time for what’s important. Everyone is busy, but there’s a huge difference between being busy and being productive. Alphas are willing to sacrifice small things for important ones, even if it means giving up a little fun.

Rule 2
Consider the problem from all angles to find a solution. Alphas know that sometimes you need a hammer, other times a key. Developing an understanding of how to address problems is an infinitely valuable life skill.

Rule 3
Embrace ego as a mechanism to become more confident. But ego should never prevent you from listening to others or being willing to learn. Alphas are always open to the idea that they can learn more.

Rule 4
Understand the importance of sex. Alphas want sex to be meaningful to them in a number of ways. Whether you quantify that by performance or connecting with your partner, great sex is something that Alphas are great at. Put somewhat less delicately, Alphas are f—king great at f—king.

Rule 5
Say no to things you don’t like.

Rule 6
Don’t ask permission – beg for forgiveness (it’s easier).

Rule 7
Don’t criticise an idea unless you’re willing to provide an alternative.

Rule 8
Get your clothes tailored. A $500 suit that fits well looks better than a $1,000 suit that doesn’t.

Rule 9
Show love. Never, ever, ever hold back from giving a compliment, as long as it’s sincere. There’s never a bad time to say something nice. Get in the habit of doing this. People will love you for it.

Rule 10
Always be the first to reach for the cheque. Do this even if the other person invited you out. If he or she puts up a strong fight, let ’em have it. Alphas try to take care of others and never want to be beholden to anyone, but they don’t force dominance on other people, especially financially.

Rule 11
Answer all insults with a smile. Alphas understand that not everyone is going to like them, and some people will be vocal about it. There’s no point giving them the satisfaction of giving a shit.

Rule 12
Admit your mistakes with honesty and humour. Accepting responsibility for your actions, especially when they are mistakes, is vitally important. Alphas do this, and they always go the extra step to make things right.

Rule 13
Take the lead. Always suggest a day and time to meet instead of leaving it in the air. Alphas don’t wait for others to suggest things – they make things happen.

Rule 14
Understand that scared money don’t make money. This is an old saying that is common in the poker world, and it’s another way of saying “fortune favours the bold”. Alphas take risks and savour both the sweetness of victories and the lessons learned in defeat.

Rule 15
Learn how to cook. If you’re approaching 30 and you can’t make a few meals, take the next month and learn. Seriously, time to grow the f—k up. Alphas know how to feed themselves. It’s a basic human function.

For the full feature and images grab the July 2013 issue of MAXIM.

To grab a digital copy CLICK HERE. All past issues available for download.

To subscribe CLICK HERE. Australian residents only.

iPad Application also available. CLICK HERE. All past issues available for download.

Eva Amurri

Kerry Washington