The concept of “quiet quitting” emerged in the wake of the Great Resignation, a period marked by record numbers of employees voluntarily leaving their jobs. This mass exodus highlighted the growing dissatisfaction and burnout among workers, prompting many to re-evaluate their relationship with work.

In essence, “quiet quitting” refers to the act of doing the bare minimum at work – fulfilling your job description without going above and beyond. This can manifest as refusing to work overtime, disengaging from non-essential tasks, or limiting communication to work hours.

Quiet Quitting vs. Setting Boundaries: What’s the Difference?

While the term “quiet quitting” suggests a passive-aggressive form of protest, many argue that it’s simply a way of setting healthy boundaries. In today’s always-on work culture, the lines between work and personal life have become increasingly blurred, leading to increased stress and burnout.

Here’s why framing it as boundary-setting is crucial:

• Prioritizing well-being: Setting limits on work protects personal time, mental health, and overall well-being.
• Defining expectations: Clearly communicating boundaries helps manage employer expectations and prevents misunderstandings.
• Promoting work-life balance: Disconnecting from work allows for personal pursuits and fosters a healthier work-life integration.