The Rise of “Quiet Quitting“: A New Name for an Old Struggle?
Lately, the term “quiet quitting” has exploded across social media and infiltrated water cooler conversations (or perhaps more accurately, Slack channels). It’s the notion of doing the bare minimum at work, rejecting the “hustle culture” mentality, and prioritizing personal time over going above and beyond for one’s employer. But is this a new phenomenon, or simply a fresh coat of paint on the age-old struggle for work-life balance?
From Burnout to Boundaries: Understanding the Context of “Quiet Quitting“
To understand “quiet quitting,” we need to consider the context in which it emerged. The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a global shift in work dynamics. Remote work blurred the lines between professional and personal lives, leading to longer hours and increased burnout for many. Simultaneously, the rise of social media amplified the pressure to showcase a picture-perfect life, further fueling feelings of inadequacy and exhaustion.
In this environment, it’s no surprise that people began seeking ways to reclaim their time and mental energy. “Quiet quitting” emerged as a seemingly rebellious act, a rejection of the expectation to constantly strive for more in a system that often feels rigged against employees.
