Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? What the Latest Workplace Trend Really Means



The Rise of “Quiet Quitting

The term “quiet quitting” has taken the internet by storm, sparking countless articles, social media debates, and even think pieces from major news outlets. But what does it actually mean? Is it a new phenomenon, or simply a trendy term for an age-old struggle between employees and employers?

Decoding the Buzzword: What is Quiet Quitting?

In its essence, “quiet quitting” refers to the act of doing the bare minimum at work. Employees who engage in this trend are not necessarily looking to leave their jobs immediately, but they are no longer going above and beyond. They stick to their defined job description, clock out at the designated time, and resist the pressure to take on extra responsibilities.

While the term itself may be new, the sentiment it reflects is not. Employees have long grappled with burnout, lack of work-life balance, and feeling undervalued. However, the pandemic and the rise of remote work have brought these issues to the forefront, forcing both individuals and organizations to re-evaluate priorities.

Two people having a conversation at work, appearing to actively listen to each other