The Rise of “Quiet Quitting“: A New Name for an Old Struggle?
The internet is buzzing with talk of “quiet quitting,” a term that has sparked heated debates about work-life balance, employee engagement, and the very nature of a job. But is this phenomenon really new, or are we simply slapping a catchy label on an age-old struggle?
Understanding Quiet Quitting: Burnout, the Great Resignation, and Shifting Priorities
To understand “quiet quitting,” we need to look at the broader context. The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a wave of burnout and reevaluation of priorities. The “Great Resignation” saw millions leaving their jobs in search of better work-life balance, flexibility, and fulfillment. This shift in employee expectations set the stage for the emergence of “quiet quitting” as a topic of conversation.
The term itself is somewhat misleading, as it implies a passive form of disengagement. However, many argue that what we’re really seeing is a rejection of hustle culture and a desire to set healthy boundaries. Employees are pushing back against the expectation of going above and beyond, choosing instead to focus on their contracted hours and responsibilities.
