The Rise of Quiet Quitting: A New Term for an Age-Old Struggle?
The internet is buzzing with a new phrase: “quiet quitting.” It’s sparked countless articles, social media debates, and even think pieces on the state of the modern workplace. But is this really a new phenomenon, or just a fresh label for something many of us have grappled with for years – the desire for a healthier work-life balance?
Understanding Quiet Quitting: Burnout, Hustle Culture, and the Great Resignation
To truly grasp the “quiet quitting” conversation, we need to consider the backdrop against which it’s unfolding. The COVID-19 pandemic brought about a seismic shift in how we work. Remote work became the norm for many, blurring the lines between personal and professional life. This, coupled with economic uncertainty and widespread burnout, fueled the “Great Resignation,” as employees re-evaluated their priorities and sought better work environments.
Simultaneously, the always-on nature of technology and the pervasive “hustle culture” – where overwork is often glorified – contributed to a sense of pressure to constantly be “on.” It’s within this context that “quiet quitting” emerged, reflecting a growing sentiment of employees pushing back against these pressures.
