Rewards Outlast Punishments

Punishment diminishes over time while the allure of rewards remains constant. Individuals quickly forget the negative consequences of their actions, leading them to repeat behaviors that once prompted regret. Positive memories overshadow negative ones, exemplified by the way people reminisce about past relationships. In organizational settings, while punishment can enforce compliance in the short term, its effects fade when the threat is removed. Conversely, rewards foster enduring motivation and healthier behavior, ensuring that individuals maintain their performance even in the absence of oversight. Thus, to achieve sustained behavioral adherence, prioritize a system of rewards over punishments.