The Rise of ‘Quiet Quitting’: A New Name for an Old Struggle?
The internet is abuzz with talk of “quiet quitting,” a term that’s sparked heated debates about work-life balance, employee expectations, and the very nature of a job. But is this really a new phenomenon, or are we just slapping a trendy label on an age-old struggle?
Understanding the Backdrop: From Hustle Culture to the Great Resignation
To grasp the “quiet quitting” phenomenon, we need to look at the context in which it emerged. Years of “hustle culture” – glorifying overwork and equating self-worth with professional achievements – have left many feeling burnt out and disillusioned. Enter the Great Resignation, a mass exodus from jobs that no longer fulfilled people’s needs or aligned with their values.
Against this backdrop, “quiet quitting” emerged as a seemingly appealing concept – a silent rebellion against unrealistic expectations. Instead of physically leaving their jobs, employees started “quietly quitting” by doing the bare minimum, setting strict boundaries between work and personal life, and refusing to go above and beyond.
