How to Sign "Motivation"

To sign 'motivation,' bring both hands in front of your chest with flat handshapes. Face your palms toward each other and press them together. Briskly rub your hands back and forth against each other a few times. Your facial expression should look eager or determined to match the concept.

Examples Using "Motivation" in a Sentence

1

I need some motivation to finish my homework.

Sign 'motivation' by rubbing your flat hands together, and use a slightly tired facial expression before transitioning to a determined look to show you are seeking that drive.

2

Her motivation inspired the whole team.

Use a brisk, energetic movement when rubbing your hands together to show strong motivation, pairing it with a positive, enthusiastic facial expression.

3

He has a lot of motivation to succeed.

Emphasize the sign by rubbing your hands together vigorously, accompanied by a confident and driven facial expression to indicate a high level of eagerness.

How to Sign "Motivation"
To sign 'motivation,' bring both hands in front of your chest with flat handshapes. Face your palms toward each other and press them together. Briskly rub your hands back and forth against each other a few times. Your facial expression should look eager or determined to match the concept.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic, mimicking the natural human body language of rubbing one's hands together in eager anticipation or excitement. This physical expression of readiness perfectly captures the inner drive and energy associated with motivation.
Signing Tips
Focus on keeping your hands flat with your fingers pointing forward and slightly angled up. The movement should slide your palms back and forth briskly. Always pair this sign with a facial expression that matches the intensity of the motivation you are describing—look eager, ready, and driven!
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is interlocking the fingers or clasping the hands instead of keeping the palms flat against each other. Another error is moving the hands up and down rather than sliding them back and forth. Finally, beginners often forget to include an engaged, determined facial expression.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Motivation" in a Sentence
1

I need some motivation to finish my homework.

Sign 'motivation' by rubbing your flat hands together, and use a slightly tired facial expression before transitioning to a determined look to show you are seeking that drive.

2

Her motivation inspired the whole team.

Use a brisk, energetic movement when rubbing your hands together to show strong motivation, pairing it with a positive, enthusiastic facial expression.

3

He has a lot of motivation to succeed.

Emphasize the sign by rubbing your hands together vigorously, accompanied by a confident and driven facial expression to indicate a high level of eagerness.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'motivation' the same as 'enthusiasm'?

Yes, this sign is commonly used for 'motivation,' 'enthusiasm,' and 'eager.' The specific meaning is easily understood through the context of your conversation and the intensity of your facial expression.

How fast should I rub my hands together?

The speed of the movement can show the level of motivation. A faster, more vigorous rub indicates high energy and strong motivation, while a slower rub might show a steady, building drive.

Should my fingers point straight up or forward?

Your fingers should point forward and slightly upward. Avoid pointing them straight up towards the ceiling, as this can make the movement feel awkward and less natural.

ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!