Latest news with #emotionalmaturity
Vogue
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Vogue
What Is Emotional Maturity, Anyway?
When Leonardo DiCaprio, who was born in 1974, made headlines this week for joking in an interview with Esquire that he 'turned emotionally 35 last year,' I was reminded of the wide gulf in emotional maturity that I've often observed between my single friends and their potential paramours. Obviously, saying that 'all' men are emotionally immature (or, for that matter, that 'all' women are more emotionally evolved than their male counterparts) is ludicrously imprecise—not to mention a reinforcement of an outdated gender binary. But emotional maturity is a funny thing; as age-gap relationships often demonstrate, the number of years a person has lived doesn't always directly correspond to where they are in their lives, or who they find themselves attracted to. (see, again, DiCaprio, famous dater of women in their 20s). Here, a closer look at emotional maturity as a concept: How is emotional maturity defined? According to Psychology Today, emotionally mature people share three key characteristics: they take full responsibility for their feelings, their reactions, and their lives; they are able to have empathy for themselves and others simultaneously; and they speak up and tell the truth, even when it's hard. That doesn't mean that an emotionally mature person can never have an outburst—only that they're willing to see where they've gone wrong and own up to it, especially when their behavior has negatively affected themselves or others. The idea has a lot in common with the way Joan Didion defined self-respect in 1961: 'Character—the willingness to accept responsibility for one's own life—is the source from which self-respect springs.' What are some examples of emotionally immature characters from pop culture? Hannah Horvath, the flailing early-20s aspiring writer in Girls, springs to mind, as does the rest of her deluded girl gang; Barney Stinson, the stunted lothario-slash-sex pest from How I Met Your Mother, certainly had some emotional maturing to do, even by the end of the series; and while the Carrie Bradshaw we met on the original Sex and the City wasn't what anyone would call emotionally mature (remember when she whipped a full McDonald's meal at the wall because she was mad at Mr. Big?), that has changed by the final episode of And Just Like That…, when Carrie has chosen herself as the steward of her own happiness. What's the risk of getting involved with someone who's not as emotionally mature as you are? According to clinical psychologist Nick Wignall, dating someone who's emotionally immature may involve dealing with their tendencies to avoid vulnerability, trying new things, or being alone with themselves and their uncomfortable thoughts and feelings; and their need to get the last word in. While all (or most) of us may exhibit some of these attributes from time to time, their prevalence can seriously strain a relationship. Can I build more emotional maturity? Absolutely, though it will take some time. According to a 2011 National Institutes of Health study, emotional experience and overall emotional well-being are likely to improve with age over the course of a person's life, though self-improvement and awareness practices like mindfulness, journaling, and boundary work can also be helpful. What further reading should I do to understand emotional maturity? Lindsay Gibson's 2015 book Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents: How to Heal from Distant, Rejecting, or Self-Involved Parents is great if you're looking to better understand attachment patterns, or how your pursuit of romantic relationships or friendships with people lacking in emotional maturity may relate to your upbringing. Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves's Emotional Intelligence 2.0 is also a good choice for anyone wondering how emotional maturity differs from intellect, kindness, or any other attributes important to a healthy relationship.
Forbes
07-07-2025
- General
- Forbes
3 Signs Of An Emotionally Mature Partner, By A Psychologist
Emotional maturity is an invaluable strength in a partner. Here's how to tell if they're truly ... More mature, in ways that serve your connection. The presence of an emotionally mature partner is often understated, but the impact is anything but. They're the ones who steady the ship, who stay soft when everything around them gets tough and who make emotional safety non-negotiable, irrespective of what relationship they're a part of, whether it's their family, friends or a partner. A new study published this January in Current Psychology investigated emotional maturity and mental health outcomes among a sample of over 200 university students. Researchers found that emotional maturity alone explained almost all of the variation in anxiety and depression levels, at 97% within the study model. Combined with effective communication skills, the cumulative effect was strongly predictive of improved mental health. This indicates that emotional maturity is not merely about getting through relationships. It's a key aspect of psychological resilience. Yet, emotional maturity doesn't necessarily arrive with age or time passing. It's cultivated by gaining self-awareness and then intentionally applying that awareness by taking accountability, responsibility and being present, even when it's hard, for yourself and others. So, how do you know if you're in a relationship with someone who is emotionally mature? Here are three unmistakable signs. 1. They Handle Emotions With Care Emotionally mature partners take good care of their own emotions and remain sensitive to yours. You feel safe around them. You can speak your thoughts out loud without the fear of being judged or belittled, and express when you're hurt without questioning whether it will be used against you. During an argument, they don't lash out or stonewall. They listen with curiosity instead of being defensive. They own their mistakes without blaming or feeling sorry for themselves. They use their words and actions thoughtfully and show up to understand rather than win against you. For instance, suppose you've said, 'I felt disregarded at the team dinner last night when you spent more time on your colleagues than with me.' An emotionally intelligent partner will not retort with, 'That's not the case, you're being overly dramatic.' Instead, they might pause for a second and then inquire, 'Can you help me see what made you feel that way?' They do not rush to defend themselves; instead, they take accountability where it's due and genuinely make an effort to be fully present for your feelings. A 2021 study published in Frontiers in Psychology investigated individuals' management of emotions within close relationships. Participants wrote about two emotional conflicts: one with a parent and one with a romantic partner. Researchers found that individuals scoring high in emotional intelligence employed strategies such as cognitive reappraisal — actively changing one's perspective on a situation to reduce its emotional impact. They also used selective emotional suppression — opting not to express certain emotions when maintaining the relationship was more crucial than venting the emotion at that moment. This emotional flexibility is a true sign of maturity. It's not bottling up emotions or conflict avoidance, but understanding when and how to convey feelings in a manner that adds to the relationship, rather than undermining it. 2. They Know How To Communicate And Connect Emotional maturity is not just reflected in how one handles emotions, but also in how one relates through them. Such partners communicate with purpose. They listen with compassion. And when necessary, they move towards the pain rather than away from it. A 2017 study published in Couple and Family Psychology investigated the use of romantic competence — a blend of emotional awareness, mutual respect and self-regulation — in developing intimacy. The authors determined that women's romantic competence impacted both partners' capacity for expressing positive emotions that support closeness. In men, romantic competence had a greater influence on their own capacity for emotionally relating to the relationship. When your partner is emotionally mature, communication feels like a two-way street. They don't simply wait for their turn to talk. They ask good questions. They take a moment before answering. And they don't interrupt challenging conversations with tension or deflection. Additionally, they don't interpret your boundaries as rejections. Rather, they interpret them as signposts to connection. They work with you, not over you. They know when to give you space and when to step in gently. They also don't weaponize people-pleasing. Emotionally mature people don't use kindness, agreeableness or self-sacrifice as tools of manipulation, whether consciously or unconsciously. They don't say yes just to avoid conflict and then hold resentment in silence. They don't agree with you to gain approval only to later withdraw, explode or guilt-trip. They aren't overly nice because they fear rejection or want control over how others view them, and they don't avoid honest conversations just to keep the peace because they know that isn't healthy. A mature partner also apologizes meaningfully — not because they wish the fight to cease, but because they wish to comprehend the rupture and avoid it in the future. They don't repeat phrases merely to ease tension. They pause to think and repair. Because for them, resolution isn't about stopping discomfort — it's about restoring trust. 3. They Are Consistent With Their Support Every Day A 2022 meta-analysis published in Personality and Individual Differences examined 90 effect sizes across 78 studies. Researchers found that emotional intelligence significantly predicted romantic relationship satisfaction. The more emotionally intelligent the partner, the more likely their partners were to report fulfilling, stable relationships. Emotionally mature partners are reliable in their emotional presence, not only when things go south, but in the little, everyday moments where real intimacy is established. They do the small things that make you happy, such as putting on your favorite song while driving or ordering your favorite meal before you request it. They pay attention when you are uncomfortable and respond accordingly, without looking for an invitation. Your well-being is important to them, not just as a duty, but as a priority. They are also aware of their own emotional boundaries. They don't always need you to hold them up or be their emotional anchor. When they need space, they make it explicitly clear and manage their inner world themselves. They don't project or punish; rather, they can manage their emotions. Their kindness is not conditional. It's not limited to only you or to when times are good. They show others the same respect they show you, even when your relationship becomes strained. Their character does not change with mood or situation. Emotional maturity breeds safety. And from safety, everything else grows — intimacy, trust and long-term joy. Being with someone emotionally mature doesn't mean your relationship will be free of fights, disagreements and misunderstandings. But it does mean that when there are problems, you'll solve them as a team. Curious how emotionally intelligent you are? Take this research-backed test to find out: Emotional Quotient Inventory
Yahoo
30-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Spiritually Gifted Since Birth? 4 Signs You Have a Higher Calling
Spiritually Gifted Since Birth? 4 Signs You Have a Higher Calling originally appeared on Parade. With the wisdom of an old soul comes a higher purpose. Intuitive individuals often serve as the quiet yet powerful spirits of our society. With just a glance, they can perceive deeper truths that lie beneath the surface. While we all follow unique karmic paths, soul journeys, spiritual callings, and possess innate gifts, it is true that some of us are more likely to be destined for a higher calling, one that was written before our birth. Ancestors, spirit guides, and unseen protectors walk beside us, enabling our liberation, evolution, and the fulfillment of our soul contracts. READ: The Person Worth Waiting For, Based On Your Birth Month When you are born with a higher purpose, it's common to feel out of place in most social circles. You may connect with different groups to some extent, but you often struggle to find people who truly resonate with the complexity of your nature. While it is normal for people to go through phases where finding their community is challenging, many spiritually gifted individuals may find it difficult to relate to others throughout their lives. OTHER: Born on One of These 4 Dates? You Were Born Under a Lucky Star During your formative years—childhood, adolescence, and early adulthood—you may have found yourself lightyears ahead of your peers. This may have been true academically or intellectually, but more importantly, you excelled in emotional maturity. Emotional intelligence came naturally to you, allowing you to align effortlessly with your values, integrity, and compassion. Even adults recognized your ability to make wise decisions and stay grounded. NEXT: Born on One of These 4 Dates? You Offer a Rare Mix of Romance & Loyalty Individuals who are born with spiritual gifts often face challenges in choosing their ideal career paths. This stems from the exhausting reality of trying to share their knowledge, gifts, or insights within the confines of modern careers. While they may desire to explore art, creativity, or other means of manifesting their ideals, they often find these paths either inaccessible or financially unviable. Additionally, the typical 9-to-5 job can feel intolerable, leaving them dreaming of a day when they can truly make an emotional difference. However, they can achieve practical growth by embracing their artistic, healing, and emotional sides within the workforce. By integrating a spiritual practice, providing psychological support to others, or channeling their visions into artistic mediums, they can find fulfillment by daring to follow their hearts. RELATED: What Color is Your Aura? and What It Means As an old soul with a higher calling, you have an inherent desire to heal others. However, this desire can create a catch-22 situation. While your intention to uplift others and reveal their innermost truths can be empowering, it often shines more brightly within established boundaries, such as professional relationships with clients. On the other hand, when we choose romantic partners who are far from reaching their potential or unable to meet our emotional needs, we can find ourselves stumbling. If you possess spiritual gifts, it's essential to avoid losing yourself while trying to save others, especially at the expense of finding relationships that truly nurture your deeper soul. Spiritually Gifted Since Birth? 4 Signs You Have a Higher Calling first appeared on Parade on Jun 25, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 25, 2025, where it first appeared.
UAE Moments
23-06-2025
- Entertainment
- UAE Moments
Today's Moon Mood: Tuesday, June 24, 2025
Today's Lunar Vibe: Capricorn Moon – Time to Get Serious (But Make It Cute) After yesterday's wild Sagittarius full moon energy, the moon slips into Capricorn today — the universe's way of saying, 'Okay, but what's the plan?' The vibe shifts from chaotic-cosmic to cool, calm, and CEO. You're being called to get it together, but in a chic, emotionally mature kind of way. Capricorn moons remind us that dreams need discipline. So whether you're organizing your closet, setting a boundary, or finally opening that budgeting app… today's the day. Emotionally: Feelings are here — but tucked into a blazer and taking notes. You're more in control, but that doesn't mean you're cold. It's just easier to focus on what matters right now and tune out the drama. Socially: You may not be in the mood for gossip or brunch chaos — and that's okay. Surround yourself with people who get it, or spend time solo plotting your next move. Productive convos > small talk. In Your Feels: There's a quiet intensity in the air. You might feel pressure to level up or prove something to yourself. Just don't forget: rest is also productive. Capricorn wants results, but burnout isn't the assignment. Signs Thriving in This Moon Mood: Capricorn, Taurus, Virgo, Scorpio — your inner boss is fully activated. Signs Who Might Feel a Little... Constrained: Cancer, Aries, Libra — structure is cute, but don't let it stifle your sparkle. Moon Mood Pro Tip: Make a to-do list… but add something fun to it. 'Text my crush back' or 'start a new playlist' still count as productivity. You're building your empire — don't forget to vibe while doing it.
Yahoo
18-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Women Are Sharing The 'Green Flags' More People Should Pay Attention To, And I'm Inclined To Agree
As a society, we talk a lot about red flags, but perhaps we should talk more about the green ones. Unlike red flags, green flags are the positive qualities and signs found in a person that signal trust, respect, and support. In r/AskWomen, someone asked, "What's a 'green flag' you wish more people talked about?" Answers poured in. Here's what people had to say: 1."People changing their opinion after receiving new information and admitting they're wrong. It shows great emotional maturity." — Valuable-Disaster567 "This. Self-awareness and willingness to be wrong were the first things I noticed about my husband back when we were friends." — Tiny_Jumping_Beans 2."Honestly, I wish more people talked about how great it is when someone genuinely listens without trying to fix everything or jump in with advice. Just being heard with no judgment or quick solutions is such a rare and awesome green flag." — MeetingContent1947 3."Apologizing because they meant it and not because you called them out." — Louisianimal09 "Yeah. Saying sorry not just to end the conversation." — Baby_Driver2945 4."Having cats as pets." — Cautious_Gazelle7718 "Men with cats are always a good sign." — ODeasOfYore 5."When someone admits they don't know something instead of pretending they do." — Flirty_Babe0 6."Gardening. If someone regularly tends and cares for their plants, they're probably a good person overall. They have patience and gentleness. They are constantly learning and adapting. The whole concept of gardening is centered on nurturing life. You can't get greener than that." — ODeasOfYore 7."Remaining calm and kind when another person is going through something that bothers them." — askingoutright 8."Silliness. In a world where we're isolated, people are so rarely silly. When I see someone being a goofball or unapologetically themselves, I am enamored." NBC / Via — wyomingtrashbag Related: This "Brain Rot" Word Quiz Will Be So, So, So Difficult For Anyone Born Before 1999 9."Empathy." — SparkleStorm93 10."Being curious." — Sea_Client9991 11."Recycling. Actually giving a damn about the planet." — Awesomeandkindaweird 12."Being able to lose a board game (or any game) without getting sour and making everyone else feel uncomfortable." — natural-lily "So true. Being a good sport is something everyone should've learned in kindergarten and adults who lack this skill are such a red flag." — West-Crazy3706 13."Someone who remembers things about you. What you've told them, like if they see you like certain foods or drinks, etc." — _TwinkleSiren Related: Fair Warning: You'll Need A Minimum IQ Of 135 To Pass This Vocabulary Quiz 14."People who have their own established things, like hobbies, friends, and go-to rituals and places, before you get into their life. They were themselves before they were with you!" — Intelligent_Tank6969 15."Having friends of the opposite gender." — estachicaestaloca 16."A good listener." — MmmBlackCod 17."Tolerance and gently/intentionally working through disagreements instead of immediately cutting people off/out." — b0x8 18."A willingness to try new things, whether it's food, activities, TV shows, etc. I dated so many guys who never wanted to branch out from what's familiar, and I'm not a spontaneous person. I think someone with an adventurous nature can better roll with the chaos that life brings." — Tiny_Jumping_Beans 19."Having dogs as pets." BuzzFeed Celeb / Via — legendofdoggo 20."Trying to make me feel less shit about a mistake I made. Though I am sorry, I appreciate someone trying to make something not seem like a big deal because life goes on." — TheStarChilld 21."Communicating their feelings. Being able to say, 'Hey, this doesn't make me feel good,' or, 'what you said made me upset,' is so much better than people shutting down and keeping you guessing as to why they're distant." "My girlfriend is super good at telling me how she's feeling, and I really like it because I can adjust myself to help her or ask her what she'd like or needs to feel better. Nobody is left feeling like they're misunderstood." — MarsupialNo1220 22."Being able to adapt to different moods and situations! From silly to serious or difficult situations, dealing with them with ease! Huge green flag." — Icalivy 23."People who do kind acts behind the scenes without the need of any recognition or credit." Netflix / Via — thewinterflower 24."Being kind to children, the elderly, disabled people, and service workers. Being genuine in that kindness with no ulterior motive." — Loisgrand6 25."People generally appreciate honesty, but nobody talks about how much of a green flag it is when somebody who wants to impress you tells you something that they know will piss you off." — T-Flexercise 26."Anyone who goes to therapy is such a good sign. I'm a firm believer that everyone can benefit from therapy." AppleTV+ / Via — gaz_is_my_hero 27."When someone takes accountability without getting defensive. They listen, reflect, and try to do better without making it all about them. That kind of emotional maturity is so attractive and way more powerful than empty apologies or over-the-top gestures." — scientist_hotwife Do you agree? Do you have green flags to share? Drop them in the comments! Note: Responses have been edited for length/clarity. Also in BuzzFeed: 50 People Who Died In Embarrassing, Nightmarish, Scandalous, Horrifying, Disturbing, Or Even Darkly Funny Ways Also in BuzzFeed: You Might Be Intelligent, But Only A TRUE Smarty-Pants Will Be Able To Get 25/25 On This General Knowledge Quiz Also in BuzzFeed: I Translated These US States Into A Set Of 5 Emojis — Let's See If You Can Decipher Even Half Of Them
