Is this just stress – or burnout?
If stress persists for weeks or months and constantly affects how you feel emotionally or physically, that may be a sign it’s progressed beyond normal stress and into burnout. It could be burnout if you:
Feel overworked, overwhelmed and emotionally exhausted constantly – not just for a week
Get anxious about work feel absolute dreading about going back to work
Feel run-down by saying "yes" all the time and having to handle everything for everyone else
Find yourself crying randomly, irritated by little things, or snapping at people close to you
Normal Stress Feels Like
- A few hours or days of low motivation, tiredness, or anxiety
- A passing headache, cold, or a poor night or two of sleep
- An occasional cancelled plan
- A temporary frustration with a life or work experience or event
Burnout Feels Like
- Weeks-long exhaustion, apathy, or pessimism
- Brain fog, headaches, stomach aches, getting sick easier, and difficulties sleeping
- Withdrawing from colleagues, friends, a partner, or family
- Life/work feel lacking, or deeply misaligned with core values
You don't need to try to fix your life right now.
If you're like the millions of people who face burnout each year, you might be feeling pretty worried or anxious right now. The good news is you're not alone and you're going to be okay, too. You don't need to worry about trying to fix everything at once. Just take it one step at a time – we're here to help you do that. Start with a burnout quiz to find out whether you’re dealing with stress or burnout, and we'll guide you from there.
Get more clarity.
This short quiz can help you understand whether you might be experiencing burnout.
Ready for your next step?
Download Bonsai: your guide through burnout.
Reduce Stress
Learn how to regulate your stress and prevent burnout with lessons.
Track Your Progress
Take personalized quizzes to address the roots of burnout and track your progress along the way.
Access Expert Tips
Access hundreds of tools and tips made specifically for burnout prevention, or recovery.