Characteristics of living things show up everywhere. Here's the thing: It's not enough to exhibit one or two characteristics. In order to be considered a living thing, the thing in question must exhibit all the characteristics of living things. There are six distinct characteristics that all living things possess. Not four, not ten, six. If a particular thing shows all six of the characteristics of living things, it can be said to be a living organism. These are the six characteristics needed to be considered a living thing.