Burnout is a process that happens gradually over time. It creeps up on a person through an accumulation of random minor negative thoughts, sporadic lost hopes, and a series of small disappointments in oneself. Burnout is a painful process that includes emotional exhaustion, a loss of pleasure in interpersonal relationships, and a diminished sense of self-worth. Burnout is the result of trying too hard for too long in a situation where the odds are against meeting one’s expectations. People who burn out are intelligent, dedicated people who have high expectations for themselves. —Linda Curci, Caltech Counseling Center