The Power of Positive Reinforcement: How to Use Rewards to Improve Performance

Hours of editing our first Youtube video and listening to myself talking about the principles of positive coaching inspired me to write about the power of positive reinforcement as it pertains to positive coaching.

Using rewards to improve performance and learning is a mixture of art and science. The scientific part tells us how it works at the level of the brain and why we should use it. And the artistic part is about knowing how to use it – being creative about its implementations. 

The Power of Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is a technique that we use to encourage desired behaviour and improve performance. It involves rewarding desired behaviour with a positive outcome, such as praise, recognition, or a tangible reward. 

The goal of positive reinforcement is to increase the likelihood that a specific behaviour will occur again in the future.

In the context of performance, positive reinforcement helps athletes and performers improve their skills and motivation. Coaches and trainers can help athletes develop self-confidence and a strong work ethic by consistently reinforcing desired behaviours and outcomes. 

Coaches and managers can use positive reinforcement to help performers overcome challenges and setbacks, providing a sense of accomplishment and encouraging them to continue working towards their goals.

It is important to note that positive reinforcement is most effective when it is timely, consistent, and specific. 

We should provide rewards immediately after the desired behaviour occurs and consistently for the same behaviour. The more specific the reinforcement, the more effective it will be in encouraging the desired behaviour.

Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool for improving performance and building confidence. By consistently reinforcing desired behaviours, coaches and trainers can help athletes and performers reach their full potential and achieve success.

Thank you very much for reading. It’s gratifying to write about these topics that have been critical to my life for so long. 

Head to Youtube and let us know your thoughts about our new Positive Coaching Video Series. Weekly episodes are coming every Wednesday. 

— Coach José