Hard to see how early societies could have survived in any other way. However, did you know that among the Plains Indians there was some provision made for males who didn't measure up to the expected standards? They had no honor and didn't run with the braves, but weren't persecuted either. When the real men went out hunting and fighting, they stayed home and took care of the squaws.
When I still around the tribes fairly often the special treatment might include some vague carve-outs for special cases, including visual artists, talented rope handlers, or the best of the the dancers who might compete and win at home or traveling to other well-known contests.
Oh. And basketball and long-distance running. The best in these two groups are honored as kings and (no pun intended) queens. Win the state championship in hoops and the chief (sorry,) challenge in your life will be to stay sober enough savor every minute of every breath.