Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? What the Latest Work Trend Really Means



The Rise of “Quiet Quitting”

The term “quiet quitting” has taken the internet by storm, sparking countless debates and think pieces. But what does it truly mean? Is it a revolutionary act of self-preservation or a recipe for career stagnation?

Decoding the Buzzword

The phrase itself can be misleading. “Quiet quitting” doesn’t necessarily involve stealthily clearing your desk and disappearing into the night. Instead, it’s about doing the bare minimum at work—fulfilling your job description without going above and beyond. Think clocking in and out precisely on time, skipping optional meetings, and generally disengaging from the hustle culture mentality.

This trend emerged in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced many to re-evaluate their priorities and relationship with work. Factors like burnout, lack of recognition, and stagnant wages have further fueled this phenomenon.

A person relaxing in nature, representing work-life balance