The Rise of “Quiet Quitting“
The term “quiet quitting” has exploded across social media and infiltrated water cooler conversations, becoming the latest buzzword to capture the zeitgeist of the modern workplace. But what does it actually mean? Is it simply a rebranding of setting healthy boundaries, or does it represent a more concerning trend of disengagement and apathy among employees?
From Hustle Culture to Work-Life Realignment
To understand “quiet quitting,” we need to consider the context in which it emerged. For years, “hustle culture” reigned supreme, glorifying long hours, side hustles, and an “always-on” mentality. This relentless pursuit of professional success often came at the expense of personal well-being, leading to burnout, anxiety, and a blurring of boundaries between work and life.
The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst, forcing many to re-evaluate their priorities and question the sustainability of this workaholic lifestyle. Employees, having experienced the benefits of flexible work arrangements and increased time for personal pursuits, became less willing to sacrifice their well-being for the sake of their jobs.
