BCBA Burnout: Falling to Our Systems
James Clear’s "Atomic Habits" isn’t just another book on the shelf—especially if you’re a behavior nerd like me. The bestseller is is a goldmine of actionable insights and you really need to check it out. One particular gem that Clear offers—a quote—has stuck with me for a considerable amount of time.
"You do not rise to the level of your goals, you fall to the level of your systems" – James Clear
This quote is a game changer. It’s especially poignant for those of us navigating the complex landscape of behavior analysis. This is a clarion call for every BCBA, beckoning us to shift our focus from mands, tacts, and behavior reduction to the groundwork for how we run our day and week.
Our systems save us.
Sometimes being a BCBA often feels like being asked to perform a high-wire act without a net. You’re balancing mands, tacts, behavior reduction, and more, all while attempting to stay upright and smiling.
The safety net?
Sorry, you don’t usually get one. At least one that functions the way it should. BCBA classwork and training often leaves out the systems that will save your professional life: routines and structures keep us steady. Too often, these systems are more like afterthoughts, hastily cobbled together rafts that barely keep us afloat in a sea of demands and stimuli. Taking a leaf out of Clear’s book to build more robust, life-saving systems that not only keep us from drowning, but help us swim more efficiently towards our goals.
One such concept/system that has kept me sane (mostly sane) for years?
Time blocking.
The art of time blocking is not as much about constriction, but about liberation. It frees us from the tyranny of overwhelm, allowing us to focus our energy. Time blocking is the act of designating a certain part of our schedule for one thing (or a group of similar things) and—barring an urgency that should warrant an interruption—allowing nothing else to get in. Three major areas that I like to time block are: 1) consultations with clients, 2) communication, and 3) deep work.
When it comes to consulting with a client, imagine it as a sacred space, a bubble where the outside world’s demands can’t penetrate. This isn’t about isolation; it’s about creating an environment where genuine focus and progress can occur. Additionally, we owe it to our clients and staff to be with them when we’re with them.
So that means that we have to say “no” to interruptions during these consultations and manage when we communicate with our other colleagues and families.
And that’s why I suggest time blocking your communication with your teams and clients. Instead of responding to every phone call, text, email, or general interruption when it happens, parse out a part of your day to make and return calls, emails, and to answer questions. Setting aside specific times for this can transform a relentless barrage of interruptions into a manageable, even enjoyable, part of your day.
Finally, the last suggestion is for you to time block what I call ‘blank paper time’. (see video). It might just be the lynchpin in our quest for a more balanced, effective work life. It’s hard for overwhelmed people to solve complex problems effectively. So you need time set aside time where you’re not dealing with infinite stimuli. This sacred space allows for unfettered thinking, planning, and problem-solving. It’s the part of the week where you aren’t “with somebody.” In addition to planning and problem-solving, it can be the place where you knock out those redundant admin tasks, as well. Away from the noise and flurry of the day-to-day, it’s one of the most productive parts of our week. We can chart the course for the coming days while also tying up the loose ends that got away from us over the course of the week.
So here is your take away: BCBAs burn out for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it’s the ridiculous demands of the company and position. But, in other instances, it’s the fact that we don’t know how to implement good systems that keep the chaos caged and under our control. Time blocking is a great way to do that!
What tips or systems would you give new BCBAs?
Martin Myers is a BCBA with a passion for helping improve the field of ABA. He is the creator of BxMastery, with over 4,000 goal ideas, sequenced, to inspire your programming. With 10+ years of experience in the field, he’s dedicated to empowering others and fostering positive change through effective leadership and communication. Connect with Martin on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for more insights and updates.