The term “quiet quitting” exploded on social media, capturing a sentiment brewing beneath the surface of many workplaces. Years of hustle culture, coupled with the blurring lines between work and personal life, have left many feeling burnt out and taken for granted.

This trend comes at a time when employees are reassessing their priorities. The pandemic forced a collective reflection on work-life balance, and for many, the old normal just doesn’t cut it anymore.

Quiet Quitting Debate: Setting Boundaries or Checking Out?

The debate around “quiet quitting” hinges on its interpretation. On one hand, proponents argue that it’s simply about:

• Setting healthy boundaries: Declining to answer emails after work hours, prioritizing personal commitments, and refusing to engage in unpaid overtime are all seen as reasonable ways to protect one’s well-being.
• Rejecting hustle culture: “Quiet quitters” are pushing back against the expectation of going above and beyond, instead focusing on delivering quality work within contracted hours.

However, critics express concerns that this trend reflects a deeper issue:

• Disengagement and apathy: They worry that “quiet quitting” signals a lack of passion and commitment, leading to decreased productivity and a decline in company culture.
• A symptom, not the cause: Some argue that instead of blaming employees, companies should focus on creating healthier work environments that foster engagement and value work-life balance.