The Quiet Quitting Conundrum
“Quiet quitting” has become the latest buzzword to capture the zeitgeist of our current work culture. But is it really a new phenomenon, or are we just slapping a catchy label on something many of us have been grappling with for years? This so-called trend has sparked a heated debate, with some decrying it as a sign of employee disengagement and others hailing it as a long-overdue rebellion against toxic hustle culture.
Where Did the Quiet Quitting Trend Emerge From?
The term itself is believed to have originated on TikTok, where creators began sharing their experiences of opting out of the “hustle harder” mentality and choosing to prioritize their well-being. While the phrase suggests a stealthy form of disengagement, it’s important to note that quiet quitting doesn’t necessarily involve actually quitting your job. Instead, it’s more about setting boundaries, refusing to go above and beyond, and generally doing the bare minimum required of you at work.
This concept has resonated deeply with many, particularly millennials and Gen Zers who entered the workforce during or after the 2008 recession. Facing uncertain economic times and often feeling undervalued and overworked, it’s no surprise that these generations are questioning the traditional expectations of work-life balance.
