The Rise of “Quiet Quitting“: What Does it Mean?
The term “quiet quitting” has exploded online, igniting debates about its true meaning and impact on the modern workplace. Is it a sign of declining work ethic, a cry for help from burned-out employees, or simply a new term for healthy boundaries?
Simultaneously, companies grappling with retention and engagement issues began prioritizing employee well-being and work-life integration. This confluence of factors created the perfect environment for the “quiet quitting” conversation to emerge.
Unpacking the Trend: Setting Boundaries or Checking Out?
At its core, “quiet quitting” means doing the bare minimum at work and disengaging from tasks outside one’s job description. This can manifest as:
- Sticking strictly to work hours and refusing overtime
- Declining projects outside one’s defined role
- Limiting communication with colleagues outside work hours
- Showing less enthusiasm for work-related activities
While some see this as a lack of commitment and declining work ethic, others view it as pushing back against unreasonable expectations and a culture of overwork. They argue that “quiet quitting” isn’t about quitting on one’s job, but rather quitting the idea of overworking without proper compensation or recognition.
The key difference lies in the intention. Is the employee setting healthy boundaries to protect their time and well-being, or are they actively disengaged and seeking an exit?
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