It takes 5...

5:1 Ratio... It's not just for Kids!

I was recently at a PBIS training, and a statement caught my attention - the 5:1 ratio for positives to corrections. What a great reminder! When I dug a little bit more, I found the following:

Business Teams:

•   High Performance      = 5.6 positives to 1 negative

•   Medium Performance = 1.9 positives to 1 negative

•   Low Performance       =  1 positive to 2.7 negatives

  

 Successful Marriages:

•  5.1 positives to 1 negative (speech acts) and

•  4.7 positives to 1 negative (observed emotions)

Losada, 1999; Losada & Heaphy, 2004

During these busy/crazy days, I encourage you to maximize positive feedback, to both your students and colleagues, by making it:

• Immediate. Give recognition as soon as possible after the event.
• Specific. State exactly what the person did that met or exceeded your expectations.
• Impactful. Explain how the event or behavior affected you, the student, or the school.
• Encouraging. Find opportunities to share your appreciation as often as possible! 

You will find a name in your mailbox on Monday (hopefully, otherwise Tuesday!).  I challenge you to give that person 1-2 positives before break.  I look forward to the impact of our encouraging words!

Have a great week!
Sue