When do you think of emotional maturity- what comes to mind? While the term emotional maturity may encompass many things, it s defined as the ability to respond to situations, control your emotions and behave in an adult manner.
Emotional maturity is an active practice, not a destination. You don’t reach a certain level of maturity and stay there without any effort. It takes self-understanding and awareness and self-control. You may be an emotionally mature person, and still have moments in which you act in a way that doesn’t align with your maturity, and that’s okay.
If you are wondering whether you are emotionally mature, then you have come to the right place. Here are 7 ways to spot emotional maturity in yourself and others.
1. You control your emotions, rather than them controlling you.
There is much to be said of someone who feels their emotions, rather than reacting to them. And there is a difference between the two. A wise man once said you don’t have to react to your emotions.
2. You take responsibility when you are wrong.
A truly emotionally mature person knows when they are wrong, and can admit it and accept the consequences of their actions. While no one likes to say they are wrong, no one can be right all the time- and being able to admit that says volumes about a person.
3. You realize you aren’t always right.
Knowing that you know nothing is honestly one of the best mindsets you can have. Emotionally mature people know they don’t have all the answers and are open to learning and growing.
4. You are resilient.
Mental resilience is the ability to withstand emotional pressure without losing control. Yes, there will be times in which that may be harder than usual, but if you can maintain yourself, even in times of distress, you are likely an emotionally mature person.
5. You have a growth mindset.
A growth mindset is a willingness and understanding that we are always growing and improving. A fixed mindset is saying, “that’s just the way I am- I can’t change.” A growth mindset is not only empowering- it’s a major sign of emotional maturity.
6. You show empathy towards others.
Perhaps one of the most important ways to tell whether you are emotionally mature is by how you understand the emotions of others.
7. You aren’t afraid to be vulnerable.
Vulnerability is the means to a true and real connection. Without the ability to be vulnerable, it may feel impossible to get close to others. Because of that, the ability to be vulnerable is a true sign of emotional maturity.