Believe me, I know the most mature and relaxed, uncomplicated and self-contained of individuals still have difficulties with relationships. Relationships are hard, that's the reason! Also, plenty of dish-throwing, volatile drama kings and queens stick it out for years and years.
But as all the studies have proven, the older people are when they marry, the less they are statistically likely to get divorced. There are many, many reasons for this but one of them is that people are simply more mature. They know themselves more deeply, they know what they want, they are able to give more of themselves, they are more patient, kind, and less judgmental.
While we can take these studies or leave them as we see fit, there is some merit to understanding that the more mature, or "grown-up" a person is, the better a partner they make. This doesn't mean that grownups shouldn't have a playful side, a sense of fun, an enjoyment of life or an ability to get lost in the moment. In fact, these are some of the most wonderful qualities any partner can have. But having a sense of being rational and being responsible, whether that responsibility is to your partner, your kitty or your family, it matters. It also means being able to communicate reasonably well. Listening to your partner and really hearing him or her without getting visibly agitated or emotionally upset as he or she is talking to you and maintaining the ability to stay calm and talk things through is so important for a lasting relationship.
Finally, putting your own needs aside to tend to the needs of your loved one(s) is probably the single most important detail, the hallmark of maturity, the marker separating the boys from the men, the girls from the women.
So remember, keep your head about you, play and have fun, but save the drama for your mama, not your honey and you'll be together longer and happier.
Aimee Boyle writes regularly for EmpowHER.