The Reserve Method · From the book Toasted

The Burn Line Locator

How burned out are you, really? Thirteen honest statements, two minutes, and you'll leave knowing two things: the state you're in, and the move that gets you out of it.

Your instinct is to guess. The most common way capable people mishandle burnout is by guessing their own position and treating accordingly. Guess too high and you reach for a long weekend when you need a longer reckoning. Guess too low and you upend your life over something a few honest changes would have held.

The dose depends on the distance. This check measures three things researchers measure — how empty you are, how far you've pulled back, and whether you still feel any good at what you do — plus the one thing the standard measures miss: where the shortfall is landing.

One catch: the instrument only works if you answer honestly. It stops working the moment you perform the answer.

Over the past month, tap each statement that has been true more often than not. Answer as the person living your life, not the version you bring to meetings.

One more, scored on its own

Have you hit a wall — gotten sick, broken down, or hit a stretch where you could not keep going — or can you feel one coming?

Ticked: 0 of 13

From Toasted: How to Tell How Burned Out You Really Are, and How to Come Back
by Lisa Chen, LMFT · lisachentherapy.com

This check is a self-reflection tool built on the three dimensions researchers measure. It is not a diagnostic instrument and not a substitute for care. If you are having thoughts of harming yourself or of not wanting to be here, reach out now — in the U.S., call or text 988 — or contact local emergency services.