Is It Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? Unpacking the Latest Workplace Trend
Introduction: The Rise of “Quiet Quitting“
The phrase “quiet quitting” has taken the internet by storm, sparking debates about work-life balance, employee engagement, and the modern workplace. But is it a new phenomenon or a catchy term for something familiar? More importantly, is it truly about quitting quietly, or is it about something more empowering: setting healthy boundaries?
Understanding the “Quiet Quitting” Phenomenon
The term “quiet quitting” is believed to have originated on TikTok and quickly gained traction on social media. It refers to employees doing the bare minimum at work – fulfilling job requirements but not going above and beyond, and mentally “checking out” outside of work hours.
This trend emerged after the Great Resignation, a period marked by unprecedented numbers of employees voluntarily leaving their jobs. The pandemic, with its blurred work-life boundaries and increased workloads, fueled a collective re-evaluation of priorities and a desire for greater autonomy and well-being.
