Is ‘Quiet Quitting’ Just Setting Healthy Boundaries? A Look at the Latest Workplace Trend
Introduction
The term “quiet quitting” has taken the internet by storm, sparking countless debates about work-life balance, employee engagement, and the very definition of a “good” employee. But is this new buzzword really a novel concept, or is it simply putting a trendy name to the age-old practice of setting boundaries?
Understanding the Quiet Quitting Phenomenon
Quiet quitting, in its essence, describes the act of doing the bare minimum at work. It’s not about slacking off entirely or producing subpar work; rather, it’s about drawing a clear line between personal and professional life. Quiet quitters fulfill their job descriptions without going above and beyond, opting out of extra projects, unpaid overtime, and the hustle culture that often pervades today’s workplace.
This trend has emerged in a post-pandemic world where burnout is rampant and employees are reevaluating their priorities. The rise of remote work has further blurred the lines between personal and professional time, contributing to a sense of always being “on.” Quiet quitting, for many, is a way to reclaim their time and energy.