The Rise of “Quiet Quitting”: A Misunderstood Workplace Trend?
Lately, the term “quiet quitting” has taken the internet by storm, sparking debates and think pieces across social media platforms and workplaces alike. But is this phenomenon truly about employees stealthily reducing their work effort to the bare minimum, or is it a sign of something deeper – a shift towards prioritizing well-being and setting healthy boundaries?
Understanding the Context: Burnout, Hustle Culture, and the Great Resignation
To fully grasp the “quiet quitting” trend, we need to consider the context in which it emerged. The past few years have been marked by unprecedented challenges, leading to widespread burnout and a reassessment of priorities. The “always-on” mentality perpetuated by hustle culture collided head-on with the realities of a global pandemic, forcing individuals to confront the unsustainable nature of overwork.
This period also witnessed the Great Resignation, a wave of employees leaving their jobs in search of better opportunities, work-life balance, and greater purpose. Against this backdrop, “quiet quitting” can be seen as a less drastic response – a way for employees to stay in their current roles while pushing back against unrealistic expectations and reclaiming their personal time.
