Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? Unpacking the Latest Workplace Trend




Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? Unpacking the Latest Workplace Trend


Introduction: The Rise of “Quiet Quitting

The modern workplace is buzzing with talk of “quiet quitting.” This phrase, born on social media, has sparked a global conversation about work-life balance, employee expectations, and the very definition of a job. But is this truly a new phenomenon, or simply a new name for an age-old struggle for boundaries?

Quiet Quitting Explained: Context and Origins

At its core, quiet quitting means doing the bare minimum at work. Employees who are “quiet quitting” aren’t outright resigning. Instead, they’re mentally “checking out.” They meet their job requirements but don’t go above and beyond, attend extra meetings, or take on extra responsibilities.

This trend emerged in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when the lines between work and personal life became increasingly blurred. As remote work became commonplace, many employees found themselves working longer hours and experiencing increased burnout. This led to a collective reassessment of priorities, with individuals seeking a healthier balance between their professional and personal lives.

[IMAGE_DESCRIPTION: People collaborating in an office with a positive and supportive atmosphere]