Work · Tool

Burnout Score

A 12-question check across the three established dimensions of burnout: emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and professional efficacy. Anonymous; no signup.

For each statement, choose how often you feel this way. Scale: 0 = never, 6 = every day.

I feel emotionally drained by my work.

0 1 2 3 4 5 6

0 = never · 3 = a few times a month · 6 = every day

I feel used up at the end of a working day.

0 1 2 3 4 5 6

0 = never · 3 = a few times a month · 6 = every day

I feel tired when I get up in the morning and have to face another day.

0 1 2 3 4 5 6

0 = never · 3 = a few times a month · 6 = every day

Working all day is really a strain for me.

0 1 2 3 4 5 6

0 = never · 3 = a few times a month · 6 = every day

I have become more cynical about whether my work matters.

0 1 2 3 4 5 6

0 = never · 3 = a few times a month · 6 = every day

I doubt the significance of my work.

0 1 2 3 4 5 6

0 = never · 3 = a few times a month · 6 = every day

I feel I treat people I work with as if they were impersonal objects.

0 1 2 3 4 5 6

0 = never · 3 = a few times a month · 6 = every day

I have become emotionally harder since taking this job.

0 1 2 3 4 5 6

0 = never · 3 = a few times a month · 6 = every day

I deal effectively with the problems of those I work with.

0 1 2 3 4 5 6

0 = never · 3 = a few times a month · 6 = every day

I feel I positively influence others through my work.

0 1 2 3 4 5 6

0 = never · 3 = a few times a month · 6 = every day

I feel exhilarated after working closely with the people I work with.

0 1 2 3 4 5 6

0 = never · 3 = a few times a month · 6 = every day

I have accomplished many worthwhile things in this role.

0 1 2 3 4 5 6

0 = never · 3 = a few times a month · 6 = every day

About the dimensions

Exhaustion is the energy dimension — feeling depleted by the work. Cynicism is the engagement dimension — losing belief that the work matters. Efficacy is the accomplishment dimension — feeling competent and effective. High exhaustion + high cynicism + low efficacy is the classic burnout pattern.

Adapted from the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), which has been the standard burnout assessment for over 40 years.

The Sunday essay

One reflection a week.

A short essay on work, life, or sleep, sent Sunday morning. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

A note on the philosophy

Work is contribution to others — paid or unpaid. Life is receiving from others — paid or unpaid. Sleep is restoration. The triangle holds when each side is honoured.

Take the Balance Audit →