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Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI)

Burnout has become a serious issue in today’s industrialized societies. According to a Gallup study approximately 67% of employees experience burnout at least occasionally, while 23% report feeling burned out on a regular basis. The World Health Organization has officially recognized burnout in the International Classification of Diseases as a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.
Burnout can manifest in various ways, but common symptoms include decreased energy, apathy, sleep disturbances, concentration problems, irritability, and a detached or cynical attitude toward work.

Take a Free Online Burnout Test

Among the free tools available to assess burnout, one of the most widely used and reliable is the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI). Developed in 2001, the OLBI was created as a free alternative to the Maslach Burnout Inventory, whose validity and cultural applicability have been questioned by many researchers.
Unlike other instruments, the OLBI focuses on two core dimensions of burnout:

  • Exhaustion — physical, emotional, and cognitive fatigue
  • Disengagement — loss of interest, reduced involvement, and a distant or cynical attitude toward one’s work
The OLBI is widely used by HR professionals, as well as by experts in occupational psychology and educational settings.

Disclaimer

This test is provided “as is.” Results should be interpreted with caution and should not be used to make any personal, clinical, or professional decisions. Please note that this test is intended for educational purposes only, and its content and outcomes do not constitute professional advice or diagnosis.

I always find new and interesting aspects in my work
There are days when I feel tired before I arrive at work
It happens more and more often that I talk about my work in a negative way
After work, I tend to need more time than in the past in order to relax and feel better
I can tolerate the pressure of my work very well
Lately, I tend to think less at work and do my job almost mechanically
I find my work to be a positive challenge
During my work, I often feel emotionally drained
Over time, one can become disconnected from this type of work
After working, I have enough energy for my leisure activities

What makes this test different from the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI)?

The OLBI is considered more universal. Unlike the MBI, which was primarily developed for the social services sector, the Oldenburg scale is applicable to any professional activity and evaluates both negative aspects and the level of engagement.

Is it true that only "weak" employees burn out?

On the contrary, burnout most often affects the most responsible and engaged employees (those "passionate" about their work). Those who work half-heartedly rarely burn out. This condition is often referred to as an "ailment of high achievers."

Can you recover from burnout without quitting?

In the early stages, yes, through a strict revision of workload and boundaries. However, in stages of deep exhaustion and cynicism, a long break is often required as the psyche begins to perceive the familiar work environment as aggressive.

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