When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways. 1 Corinthians 13: 11 (ESV)
Two characteristics one should possess would be emotional and relational maturity. A person should always strive to obtain a high level of maturity for themselves and look to seek other individuals who strive for the very same.
A definition I found on emotional maturity says this: “Emotional maturity is defined as how well you are able to respond to situations, control your emotions and behave in an adult manner when dealing with others. Being able to have a rational conversation with your significant other when you disagree instead of throwing things and ranting and raving is an example of showing emotional maturity.”
As we all grow and evolve, may we strive to be emotionally mature individuals that operate with realistic and honest expectations of ourselves, as well as other people. May we learn to accept responsibility for our actions, our happiness, and/or our unhappiness. To not place the burden of pleasing us onto others, nor looking to blame them for our bad choices and/or life outcomes.
Whether it is business, personal, or romantic relationships, we should all seek to partner with individuals who show emotional maturity. We should always keep pursuing to better ourselves in all areas of life, especially in the areas of emotional and relational maturity.
For relational maturity, I was not able to find a clear-cut definition. Most of the definitions dealt with romantic relationships only.
However, in coming up with my own definition for relational maturity, I have determined the following: a person who exhibits stability and dependability. They give their word and will do what they say, and/or stand by their commitments. They understand the importance of honesty in all of their dealings with others. They are the opposite of immature meaning, they are not spoiled or wanting their way all the time. And if they cannot get their way, they do not go around pouting or having a sour disposition. They understand how to regulate themselves (that comes with emotional maturity) and gauge their responses to situations, when faced with different, and sometimes not so pleasant outcomes.
They understand to not expect perfection from other people because they know they are not perfect. They understand accepting others and their differences can lead to mutual understanding in various situations. They understand when dealing with another individual, whether it be business or personal, there will be situations that need to be addressed or discussed respectfully, due to misunderstandings. They are willing to be open to see another’s point of view and to not pass judgment or speak harmful words against another. They strive to respect another person’s outlook in life and the contributions this other person may bring to the relationship.
When learning to be emotionally and relationally mature, one can always look to the Master Architect of our world, and of us, God and His Word. I’ve stated many times the Bible is God’s blueprint for how we all can live our best lives. Chapters in the Bible that discuss how to live as emotionally and relationally mature people would be the Psalms, Proverbs, Song of Solomon, and Ecclesiastes. Quite honestly throughout the Bible, you will find how we should behave individually, as well as collectively, as a community. The Bible teaches us all how to become the best versions of ourselves and how to treat others with love and respect.
I encourage us all to work on ourselves emotionally and relationally. To always strive for the maturity level that pleases God and is a blessing to those we meet.
Blessings,
Angélique
To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com