It’s the secret to high-performing teams — and strong marriages.

The average ratio for the highest-performing teams was 5.6 (that is, nearly six positive comments for every negative one). The medium-performance teams averaged 1.9 (almost twice as many positive comments than negative ones.) But the average for the low-performing teams, at 0.36 to 1, was almost three negative comments for every positive one.

Only positive feedback can motivate people to continue doing what they’re doing well, and do it with more vigor, determination, and creativity.