At its core, “quiet quitting” refers to the idea of doing the bare minimum at work—meeting basic requirements without going above and beyond. It’s about mentally checking out while physically remaining employed. This trend, however, is not entirely new. Disengagement and dissatisfaction among employees have been brewing for years, often fueled by:

• Increased workloads: Downsizing and increased efficiency often translate to more work for the same pay, leading to burnout and resentment.
• Blurred work-life boundaries: The “always-on” culture fostered by technology makes it difficult for employees to truly disconnect, leading to exhaustion and dissatisfaction.
• Lack of recognition and growth opportunities: Feeling undervalued and stuck in a rut can lead to employees feeling demotivated and apathetic.

Quiet Quitting vs. Setting Boundaries: What’s the Difference?

While the term “quiet quitting” might suggest a passive form of protest, it’s crucial to acknowledge the crucial distinction between disengagement and boundary-setting.

Quiet quitting, in its purest form, suggests a sense of apathy and a lack of investment in one’s work. It’s about doing the bare minimum out of a place of resentment or lack of motivation.

Setting boundaries, on the other hand, is a proactive and healthy approach to work-life balance. It’s about defining limits to protect personal time, mental health, and overall well-being. This can involve:

• Saying “no” to extra projects when feeling overwhelmed.
• Not checking work emails outside of work hours.
• Taking regular breaks throughout the day to recharge.