Toxic Partner vs Healthy Partner
All relationships require open communication and every conversation has two sides. It is up to both partners to remain mature either by just agreeing to disagree and respect one another’s opinion or by finding a solution. In a relationship both sides want to be heard, both sides want the freedom to express their opinions and both sides must be willing to compromise. If one person has unresolved pain and anger issues or is closed minded, the conversation has the opportunity to become toxic. That’s why it is so important that we heal from all negative situations we encounter, no matter how small. Just journaling and talking to someone like a life coach as an outlet can help. We’re human, we react to things in real time. When someone tells a funny joke we laugh, when someone offends us, we get angry, when someone hurts us or frustrates us, we cry. So we can’t stop ourselves from reacting, but we CAN control the reaction. It’s called emotional maturity and you achieve it by healing and training yourself to listen to understand as opposed to listening to respond. A disagreement with a toxic partner turns into an argument that leads to verbal abuse. A disagreement with a divine partner turns into a conversation that leads to a solution and changed behavior. It is vital to your mental health that you recognize the difference!
7 ways to develop your Emotional Maturity
1. Be approachable
Emotionally mature people are approachable. We smile to give off a positive presence and utilize appropriate social skills based on each situation. We also know how to communicate clearly, both verbal and nonverbal.
2. Maintain a positive attitude
Never underestimate the power of a positive attitude! Emotionally Mature people know what we need to do to have a good day and an optimistic outlook. This could include journaling, engaging in prayer or music meditation during the day as well as keeping positive quotes and affirmations readily available.
3. Develop active listening skills
Emotionally mature people listen for clarity instead of waiting for our turn to speak. We make sure to understand what is being said before responding. We then repeat back what we understood to prevent misunderstandings, allowing the listener to respond properly.
4. Be Self-Aware
Emotionally mature people are self-aware. We understand our own emotions and how they can affect those around us.
5. Respond instead of reacting
During instances of conflict, emotions can run high. The emotionally mature person knows how to stay calm during stressful situations. We don’t make impulsive decisions that can lead to an argument. We understand that in times of conflict the goal is a resolution.
6. Take constructive criticism
An important part of increasing your emotional maturity is to be able to take criticism. Instead of getting offended, try to understand where the critique is coming from and how we can make improvements.
7. Empathize
Emotionally mature people know how to empathize. We understand that empathy is a trait that shows emotional strength. Empathy helps to relate to others on a basic human level. It opens the door for mutual respect and understanding as well.
