Emotional maturity is defined as having the ability to manage one’s emotions no matter the circumstances. Imagine if emotional maturity was part of grade school curriculum? How would our world be different if we took advantage of this period of brain development by encouraging the cultivation of emotional maturity? Emotionally mature individuals stand out because of their ability to navigate conflict with grace. These are the people we turn to for advice on how to handle our most challenging relationships. Emotionally mature people are self-aware and have the capacity to manage their emotions and choose their responses carefully. Knowing the characteristics and traits that set emotionally mature people apart can help us cultivate more emotional maturity in our own lives.
Ownership
Emotionally mature people take ownership of all the variables that fall within their control. This includes their emotions, behaviors, words, actions, time, resources, attitude, and values. When we blame other people, situations, or circumstances for our lives we make ourselves a victim. Emotionally mature people know that much of life is out of our control, but we always have control over how we respond to the present moment.
Self-Awareness
Emotionally mature people have taken the time to learn about their internal landscape. The are intimately aware of their emotions, good and bad. They know how their past experiences have shaped them. They actively pursue personal growth and self-awareness because they know that it is essential to successfully navigating life. Emotionally mature people are not afraid to face their fears and failures. They openly embrace feedback from others as an opportunity to learn and grow.
Authenticity
Emotionally mature people are authentic. They have learned to let go of the social mask many people rely on for approval. Emotionally mature people accept themselves completely, flaws and all. This self-acceptance allows them to show up authentically in the world. Their authenticity invites others to show up more authentically as well. Emotionally mature people are not afraid to speak their truth and stand up for what they believe in.
Compassion
Emotionally mature people are compassionate towards others. They understand the challenges of this human experience. They have embraced the worst parts of themselves, and this awareness gives them compassion and empathy for others. Emotionally mature people practice self-compassion as well. They have learned that kindness towards themselves is essential. Their compassion reflects an awareness of the interconnectedness of all of life. Emotionally mature people appreciate that all of their choices have consequences, so they strive to act out of compassion in all circumstances.
Patience
Emotionally mature people are patient. Rather than becoming frustrated when things don’t go their way, they look for the silver lining. Emotionally mature people have learned that life has a way of working things out. They understand that change takes time. They trust that things happen when they are supposed to happen. Being rooted in patience allows them to slow down and enjoy the journey.
Presence
Emotionally mature people strive to be present in the moment they are in. When we are lost in the past or the future we cannot be fully effective in this moment. Presence is a gift. Emotionally mature people appreciate that this moment and these circumstances won’t come again. In a world with so abundant with distraction, emotionally mature people have learned that nothing can compete with the joy and peace that comes from abiding in presence.
Cultivating emotional maturity allows us to face whatever life offers us with a sense of authority and freedom. It these times of great uncertainty and change we need emotionally mature people more than ever. Like all skills, emotional maturity is one we must cultivate and develop. It is also something we need to choose on a daily basis. I personally struggle with patience the most out of all of these qualities. I hope this review will provide some points to ponder for your journey as well.