Automatic behaviour is the hallmark of immature people bent on survival, they accept few challenges and experience little growth. Immature people react with a small part of themselves to a small part of the world. They limit themselves by paying attention only to what is close-up, by focusing on the moment, and by posturing in defence. Essentially they let the things around them in form and shape their lives.
Maturity increases survival. For the long haul, reflection and resilience are needed. Mature people respond with a large part of themselves to a large part of the world. They move beyond limiting conditions by seeing what might yet be, by allowing time for things to process, and by responding with self-control and poise. They have a greater capacity to modify and shape their environment.
Peter L Steinke - How Your Church Family Works. (2006) Page 105-106