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 about the state of work in the modern age. But what exactly does it mean? Is it simply setting healthy boundaries, or is it a symptom of a larger problem?
To understand the debate, we need to understand the context. The phrase “quiet quitting” is attributed to TikTok user @zaidleppelin, who in a viral video described it as “quitting the idea of going above and beyond.” Essentially, it’s about doing the bare minimum at work – fulfilling your job description but not subscribing to the “hustle culture” mentality of constantly going the extra mile.
This resonated with many, particularly millennials and Gen Z employees who, after witnessing years of economic uncertainty, stagnant wages, and increasing demands in the workplace, are pushing back against the expectation to be “always on.”
Unpacking the Debate: Quiet Quitting as Boundaries vs. Apathy
The debate surrounding “quiet quitting” hinges on the fine line between setting healthy boundaries and disengaging from work altogether.
Arguments for Quiet Quitting as Boundary-Setting:
- Employees have the right to a life outside of work.
- Constantly going above and beyond can lead to burnout and resentment.
- It’s about prioritizing well-being and mental health.
Arguments Against Quiet Quitting: Is it Workplace Apathy?
- It promotes a lack of ambition and initiative.
- It can create an unfair workload for other team members.
- It can hinder career growth and opportunities.