written by Rebecca-Sophia Strong
Photo by Cliff Booth
It’s easy to feel disconnected, especially during challenging times when social interactions can feel limited. We often crave deeper connections, yet many conversations can feel shallow, leaving us longing for more meaningful exchanges. This month, let’s explore a powerful concept that can enhance your communication: pitching and catching in conversations.
What Does "Pitch and Catch" Mean in Communication?
Imagine a conversation as a game of catch. One person pitches an idea, a thought, or a feeling, and the other person catches it, processes it, and responds with their own pitch. This cycle of exchange makes us feel heard and understood, creating a deeper connection. So, who can you pitch and catch with? Pitching means initiating a conversation—whether it’s sharing a thought, a question, or something you’ve been pondering. It could be something as simple as a book that inspired you or a challenge you’ve been facing.
The Importance of Feeling Heard
In our busy lives, it’s easy to feel like we’re not really heard. We pitch ideas or emotions, but they sometimes get dropped, with the other person quickly shifting the focus to themselves. This lack of true connection can be emotionally exhausting, leading to feelings of loneliness and frustration. A successful pitch-and-catch conversation happens when both people feel heard. You share something meaningful, and the other person catches it, processes it, and responds thoughtfully. This back-and-forth fosters a bond and creates a sense of belonging, which is vital for our mental wellbeing.
What Makes a Great Pitch and Catch?
A great pitch doesn’t have to be life-changing—it could be as simple as sharing a worry or an exciting new idea. The key is that the other person listens and reflects on what you've shared. This can be as simple as asking thoughtful follow-up questions that show interest and engagement. For example, you might ask, "If you had five days to live, how would you want to spend them?" This is a deep, thought-provoking pitch. If the other person catches it, they might respond thoughtfully, showing genuine interest and offering their own perspective. This back-and-forth creates a deeper connection, showing that both people are actively participating in the conversation.
The Tragedy of Unheard Voices
One of the most common struggles is the feeling of not being heard. We pitch ideas, emotions, or questions, but the response may be dismissive or unrelated, creating an isolating experience. This lack of meaningful exchange can leave us questioning the depth of our relationships. When someone shares something important and doesn’t get a meaningful response, it can feel like talking to a wall. This lack of reciprocity can lead to feelings of loneliness and emotional disconnect. True conversation fosters empathy and respect, creating trust and reminding us that we are heard.
The Art of Catching and Responding
To improve your pitch-and-catch abilities, focus on truly listening. This means paying attention, not just waiting for your turn to speak. Once you’ve "caught" what the other person is saying, reflect back their feelings or thoughts in a way that shows you understand. For example, if someone shares a frustration, instead of offering a solution, try reflecting their feelings back to them: "It sounds like you're really frustrated by that situation." Then ask a follow-up question like, "What did you do after that?" This shows you’re engaged and allows for a richer conversation. You don’t have to be perfect. Sometimes, simply acknowledging someone’s feelings or thoughts is enough to help them feel heard. This creates a dynamic conversation where both people can pitch and catch freely, fostering a deeper connection.
Finding Your Pitch-and-Catch Partners
Think about the people in your life who you can pitch and catch with. Who makes you feel heard? Who listens with empathy? These are your ideal pitch-and-catch partners—people who create a space where you can express yourself and feel understood. If you feel you don’t have enough of these people in your life, it’s okay. You can actively seek out spaces where these kinds of conversations happen—maybe by joining a group or participating in activities that spark meaningful discussions.
Small Steps Toward Connection
Challenge yourself to create more meaningful exchanges. Reach out to a friend for a deeper conversation or actively listen when you’re talking to someone. The goal isn’t perfection, but to practice better communication that fosters connection. Consider incorporating EMDR Therapy into your routine if you're seeking a deeper emotional connection with yourself. This therapeutic technique can help you process past emotional experiences, improving your ability to engage in meaningful conversations. Creating spaces where you can pitch and catch with others is essential for emotional wellness.
By practicing these concepts, you’ll begin to notice the impact on your relationships and your overall sense of wellbeing. So, take small steps today to invite more meaningful exchanges into your life. When you practice pitching and catching, you create deeper, more fulfilling conversations, nurturing your mental health and connection with others.
If you want to learn more about EMDR Therapy, click here.