Does the name Barney Stinson ring a bell? The legendary man from the series How I met your mother is a person so fond of high 5s he even high 5s himself when accomplishing something worthwhile. He’s even created a compassionate high 5 for when something happens that has the power to “bum” out your friend.
For people who know me I am a HUGE fan of high fives and fist bumps, but what is it with such actions that make us feel good when receiving/giving one? Is there any evidence for this?
A study was conducted on NBA players which registered the number of times they either fist-bumped, high fived or patted each other on the backside during the game. What the study showed is that teams with the largest number of touches actually scored higher overall in the standings!
So, here are 5 main reasons you want to be high fiving more in your life:
- It promotes positive reinforcement to both the receiver and the giver.
- You make the receiver feel important, deserving your attention and encouragement.
- Tactile communication is known to increase cooperation, to send positive emotions.
- Celebrates and promotes togetherness.
- Produces the highest form of self-evaluation!
So next time you are trying to lift someone’s spirits, encourage them, or tell them how proud you are reinforcing it with a big, loud high five!
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