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

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 heated debates and countless think pieces. But what does it actually mean? Is it a silent rebellion against hustle culture or simply a rebranding of setting healthy work-life boundaries?

Decoding the Buzzword: What is Quiet Quitting?

The phrase itself is a bit of a misnomer. “Quiet quitting” doesn’t actually involve quitting your job at all. Instead, it refers to the act of doing the bare minimum at work—no more, no less. Think: strictly adhering to your job description, clocking out at 5 p.m. sharp, and resisting the urge to go above and beyond.

This trend has emerged against a backdrop of widespread burnout and a growing awareness of the importance of mental health. After years of being told to “lean in” and “hustle harder,” many workers are pushing back, choosing to prioritize their well-being over climbing the corporate ladder.

A person smiling while working on a laptop in a bright and airy office space.