Things that make you grow up…
I’ve often heard it said some people “never grow up”. It is said in a humorous way. My wife may say that about me at times. But, many times it is said in a not so funny way, usually speaking of a person’s continued immaturity.
I have another thought. Maybe for some people it is that they have never had an experience that instills maturity in them. It’s possible.
I’ve personally experienced and observed that there are some circumstances in life that bring more automatic maturity…a sort of forced growing up mentality.
Here are 7 things I’ve seen force someone to grow up quickly:
Failure
A first child
Sudden authority
Tragedy
Losing a parent
Having to make it on your own
Betrayal
You can mature naturally. You can grow up over time. But, in my experience, you grow up faster when life experience grows you up. You don’t have to grow in these experiences. Some don’t. You either own up to the challenge, or you don’t. But, when you do, you grow up faster. At least, that’s been my observation.
(By the way, that’s why I believe in giving young leaders experience where they can grow. You can read a post about that HERE.)
Have you ever been forced into a new season of maturity? What caused you to suddenly “grow up”?
What would you add to my list?
