⚒️Action Items
There are a few things going on here and science helps us understand why.
- The "Overthinking" Overload (or "Paralysis by Analysis"): When your child focuses too intensely on every single batting mechanic ("Elbow up! Rotate hips! Eyes on the ball!"), their brain actually interferes with what their body already knows how to do.
It's like trying to consciously control every breath you take – it becomes harder!
When they shift focus to pitching, their brain stops micromanaging batting, allowing those practiced mechanics to flow naturally.
Less thinking, more hitting!
- External vs. Internal Focus (Hitting the Ball, Not Just Your Elbow): We often tell kids to think about their body movements (internal focus). But research shows focusing on external targets (like "driving the ball to the fence" or "hitting the top half of the ball") is far more effective.
When your child is thinking about pitching, they're less likely to be critiquing their swing in real-time.
Their brain subtly shifts to an external goal – just making solid contact – which is exactly what leads to better hits.
- The Pressure Cooker Relief: Imagine the pressure: "I have to get a hit. Everyone's watching. I've practiced this so much!"
This self-imposed pressure can make even simple tasks feel impossible.
When they focus on pitching, the intense spotlight on batting dims. The anxiety drops, and suddenly, they're free to perform without the heavy weight of expectation.
Sometimes, the best way to reduce pressure is to simply look away from it.
- The Brain's "Reset Button": Sometimes, our brains just need a break. Constantly grinding on one problem can lead to mental fatigue and a negative feedback loop.
Shifting focus to pitching provides a "reset." It's like letting a computer cool down.
When they come back to batting (even indirectly), their mind is fresher, less fixated on past failures, and more open to natural performance.