Age – This not only counts the number of years since you were born, but also the age which you seem to be.  That is, how mature do you seem to others based on your behavior? Some people are 14 going on 24, and others are 19 going of 7.

Physical (Body type/Height/Weight) – This varies for everyone, but we all have one thing in common: At some point, our bodies are going to change.  It’s that defining moment that is awkward for almost everybody, and is the beginning of growing into a man or an adult.  It begins, it’s awful…and then it’s over!

Experience – This can come at any age.  It depends on who you know, where you go and what you do. Your life experience can be more than most adults or less than most plants.  Experiences are different for each person, but each experience shapes the way he or she develops into an adult.

Independence – Some independence is allowed and encouraged, and some is forbidden and taken away. No matter what…independence is the freedom to make your own choices and, also, your own mistakes. Independence is the ability to stand on your own two feet financially and emotionally. Independence goes hand-in-hand with your experiences, and how you get through them.

Strength – This also has more than one meaning when it comes to maturity.  There is the type of strength that is measured in numbers and physical ability, but that is only part of the picture.  There is also mental and emotional strength, which you need to deal with all of the pressures, relationships, and ‘curve balls’ of life.