About This Activity
The Burnout Budget is an experiential classroom simulation grounded in Conservation of Resources (COR) theory and Self-Determination Theory (SDT). Students allocate limited tokens across life domains, encounter fixed costs and unpredictable life events, and connect firsthand experience to the theory of stress, burnout, and resilience. Runs in 40–60 minutes. Adaptable for undergraduate, graduate, and professional audiences.
Web Apps
Life Event Card Draw
Facilitator-facing app for Rounds 3–5. Roll the die, draw cards, flip to reveal. Shared deck with 50 life event cards.
🚀 Launch App
Student Token Tracker
Student-facing app for tracking token allocations across all rounds. Open via QR code on the final slide.
🚀 Launch App
Presentation Slides
With Supplies — In-Person
Use this version when running in person with physical tokens, token boards, and printed handouts.
Hybrid — No Supplies Needed
Use this version when running online, hybrid, or in person without physical supplies. Students use the web app to track tokens.
Handouts & Guides
Token Placement Board
Student handout. Place physical tokens in each circle to track allocations across all 5 domains.
Round Tracker
Student handout. Record token totals after each round and complete the reflection questions.
Rounds 3–5 Quick Reference
Student cheat sheet for Rounds 3–5. Covers fixed costs, card rules, gaining and losing tokens, and no free reallocation rule.
Facilitator Guide
Step-by-step facilitator reference. Covers all rounds, read-aloud cues, theory anchors, debrief questions, and timing at a glance.