We spend a lot of time talking about shit tests and how they are used to test whether you are a "worthy" in any way shape or form, specifically as an alpha male. The whole concept of a shit test is patronising and insulting. Luckily, there are simple ways you can learn to overcome them and turn the situation to your favour. A lot of the time, a shit tests can be a bit of fun - if you want them to be.

However, what I don't see are examples of 'The Shut Down'. This is something I consider to be a level above a shit test and can come from anyone, both female and male. In order to maintain frame at all costs, you must be aware of this and act accordingly.

A shit test is a form of teasing and denial of your ability as a man, this is done to weed out the Alphas from the Betas.

A shut down is different. It is the attempt to break your frame in an instant in order to keep you in control. A girlfriend will do it, a wife, a mother, a grandmother and so on, anyone you care about or that you show consideration for will attempt to shut you down.

Examples of shut downs are as follows:

  • What do you want to do that for?
  • That is a ridiculous idea.
  • Don't even think about it.
  • Oh, don't be silly that is far to dangerous.
  • Nobody goes there/does that anymore.
  • Everyone will think you are ridiculous!

A shut down is an attempt to immediately break your frame. You should never ever agree with the person trying to do it to you. Whether your wife is worried about you leaving your job to set up your dream business, whether your mother thinks travelling is too dangerous, or whether your colleague thinks that car you want to buy is a piece of shit. Never humour these people. Maintain your frame and be strong.

A weak person will bow under pressure in order to not upset the person, but what is more upsetting is that person trying to stop you from making certain decisions or doing certain actions. In essence, they are stopping you from trying to improve your quality of life.

A lot of the reason shut downs are apparent is because they are driven by fear.

Fear of risk, fear of danger and fear of the unknown.

As a man it is your job to not only challenge yourself, but to also challenge the risk, danger and unknown that will be ever prevailing obstacles in your life. To do this, you must be prepared to upset a few people to succeed.

"Hey, you wanna make an omelette? You gotta break some eggs".

A word of caution. Try and be aware of the difference of someone expressing concern for your safety and well-being, as opposed to someone trying to use a shut down on you. There is a significant difference and must be treated with either the respect it deserves or the disdain that it should receive.

Be an alpha, maintain your frame and live a good life.