Rest, Role, or Life? A 10 Minute Sort

"Burned out" is one word for three different situations. You may need rest: real recovery would restore you. The drain may be tied to your role: this work, this boss, this organization. Or the exhaustion may be following you across your whole life: work, home, relationships, and the things you normally enjoy. Each one calls for a different response. Rest does not fix a role problem. A new job does not fix exhaustion that follows you home. This sort helps you see which one you are facing, then gives you one small test instead of a big leap: the Recovery Test, the Role Pattern Test, or the Life Support Test. This sort is a thinking tool, not a diagnosis. If you are dealing with persistent or severe physical or emotional symptoms, talk with a doctor or mental health professional first. If you are in the United States and in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.