It is the ability to base a judgment on the big picture, the long haul. It means being able to resist the urge for immediate gratification and opt for the course of action that will pay off later. Grown-up people can wait. Maturity is perseverance-the ability to sweat out a project or a situation, in spite of heavy opposition and discouraging setbacks, and stick with it until it is finished. The adult who is constantly changing friends and changing mates is immature.
Maturity is the ability to control anger and settle differences without violence or destruction.
The mature person can face unpleasantness, frustration, discomfort and defeat without collapsing or complaining. Maturity is humility. Maturity is the ability to live up to your responsibilities, and this means being dependable. It means keeping your word. Dependability is the hallmark of integrity.