Introduction
The modern workplace is abuzz with a new phrase: “quiet quitting.” This seemingly contradictory term has sparked countless debates, think pieces, and even a bit of anxiety among employees and employers alike. But is “quiet quitting” truly a new phenomenon, or is it simply a rebranding of a long-standing need for work-life balance and healthy boundaries?
Understanding the Shift: Work-Life Balance in the Post-Pandemic World
The COVID-19 pandemic brought about seismic shifts in how we work. Remote work, flexible schedules, and the blurring of lines between personal and professional lives became the norm for many. This period of upheaval led many to re-evaluate their priorities and the role of work in their lives. For some, this meant seeking a better work-life balance; for others, it meant pursuing passions outside of their 9-to-5. It’s against this backdrop that the idea of “quiet quitting” emerged.
But what does “quiet quitting” really mean? Definitions vary, but it generally refers to employees doing the bare minimum required of their job description, without going above and beyond. They’re not actively looking to leave their jobs, but they’re also not emotionally invested or willing to overwork themselves.
