Everyone is familiar with the concept of an alpha female—she is the dominant female in a group. She dates as many males as she wants, is strong and confident, and a hard worker as well as often busy. Alpha females are intelligent, intellectual problem solvers although being an alpha female is more of a state of mind than a physicality.

Men are sometimes afraid of dating an alpha female—scared of her confidence, of her power in society. But that should not be a concern to her because she doesn’t need a man like that—he doesn’t deserve her. A strong alpha woman needs a man who’s her equal, her partner, her greatest supporter.

When a guy finds an alpha female and is worthy of her, this is how he should treat her:

1. He doesn’t feel less of a man because of her success

It is a cultural stereotype everywhere that men have to be the ones “wearing the pants” and being more successful than their significant others. This is, of course, total nonsense and there is space for more than one driven personality within a relationship—in fact, ambitious people tend to pair together, contrary to the stereotypes. A man who deserves an alpha female should always be a motivation and inspiration for her and want her to be successful, outgoing and ambitious.

2. He shows her respect

Usually, men who show extreme ambition are considered “assertive” or “confident”, while for women, unfortunately, this is more often than not understood as “aggressive” or “bitchy”. Alpha women need be treated equally to alpha men, and be shown more respect. She is successful in a society like this and a man deserving her needs to respect that.

3. He gives her space

Not in a way “we need some space in this relationship”, but in a “she is busy, so she can’t answer your text” way. An alpha female has a busy and demanding job, extracurricular activities, a thriving social life and family commitments. Some extra organization is required to sync her busy schedule with yours and thus, spend more time together.

4. He recognizes the benefits

It’s a joy and a privilege to date an alpha female! A guy who is dating a woman like this recognizes what he is actually gaining from such a relationship. Besides the benefits you get in a “normal” relationship—like company, conversation and physical intimacy—a man deserving an alpha female is getting many additional levels of motivation and inspiration. She can act as your teacher and mentor, and vice-versa.

5. He doesn’t underestimate her but also doesn’t put her on a pedestal either

An alpha female doesn’t need to be idolized, but definitely not felt underappreciated. A man deserving her is spoiling her but never giving her everything she wants. If he is worthy of her, he will be there because he wants her, not because he needs her.