When does a dominant male speak? Does he defend himself in every conflict, or doesn't he bother any accusations/insinuation/manipulative behavior from others?

When the alpha is quiet is it because of fear, or because of cleverness?

I come to the conclusion that I didn't open girls, out of fear. Fear that another guy could be bigger, so not making a move (when in/with a group). Fear of not having anything to say. Telling yourself that you don't care about that girl.

So when do you know that you are quiet not because of fear, but because it is the smartest thing to do? What to do about fear? What to learn, in group form or one on one?