Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? What This Workplace Trend Really Means
The Rise of “Quiet Quitting”: Disengagement or Self-Preservation?
The modern workplace is abuzz with talk of “quiet quitting.” But what does this seemingly paradoxical term actually mean? Is it a mass exodus of disengaged employees, silently slipping away from their responsibilities? Or is it a much-needed recalibration, a way for individuals to prioritize their well-being by establishing healthy boundaries between their professional and personal lives? The answer, as with most things, is nuanced.
Unpacking the Trend: From Hustle Culture to Boundary Setting
The concept of “quiet quitting” emerged in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time that forced many to re-evaluate their priorities. Years of hustle culture, where overworking was glorified and “going above and beyond” was the norm, left many feeling burnt out and disillusioned. The pandemic, with its enforced slow down, provided a space for reflection. People began questioning the sustainability of this always-on mentality and started seeking a healthier work-life balance.
