One of Robbins’ key insights is that high fives can help forge positive mental pathways by linking a physical action with a positive thought. When we high five, we activate the brain’s prefrontal cortex, boosting resilience, confidence, and motivation. Every high five shared is a celebration of both individual contributions and collective achievements.

This is why we include ‘Facts, Figures and HIGH FIVES’ in our post-event reports—not just to toot our own horn, but to highlight those powerful, dopamine hits that keep teams motivated long after the event wraps up.

MAKING IT PERSONAL

A high five is all about acknowledging the individual. A high five feels personal, even at large recognition events where team efforts are celebrated. Robbins hits the nail on the head when she says: high fives send the message “I see you” rather than just “Good job.” It’s a straightforward, unspoken way to recognise someone’s presence and contribution, making it a fantastic tool for team interactions and events.

Off the back of that, here’s something to think about: high fives can outperform conventional forms of motivation. In one study comparing different types of encouragement, a group that received high fives completely outperformed those who were praised for traits or their efforts; it satisfies foundational emotional needs, especially when things get tough.

Don’t wait for the big wins to celebrate progress, harness high fives as a regular practice to fuel motivation. It’s those little boosts of encouragement that remind us we’re all in this together.

CREATING CONNECTIONS

Have you ever noticed how high fives are a staple in sports? There’s a solid reason behind it! Research reveals that successful MBA teams engage in high-fiving more frequently, and this practice significantly strengthens trust and team spirit. When we incorporate high fives into our events, we create an environment where a simple gesture can spark an instant sense of unity.

The act of touching hands literally connects us to the other person, fostering a team mentality that enhances collaboration and camaraderie.

SMALL BUT MIGHTY

So, while high fives might seem like small gestures, they carry immense weight in creating connections through shared recognition and positivity and its scientifically proven. Each high five brings real benefits in engagement, motivation, and team spirit, reminding us that sometimes the simplest gestures pack the biggest punch.

Want to hear about other ways in which events can boost audience’s endorphins and uplift you team’s performance? Why not give us a call?