Is ‘Quiet Quitting’ Really the Answer? Exploring Healthy Work Boundaries in 2023



The Rise of “Quiet Quitting

You’ve likely heard the buzzword echoing across social media and infiltrating office conversations: “quiet quitting.” But what exactly does it mean? Is it a silent protest, a mass exodus in slow motion, or simply a rebranding of an age-old concept?

In essence, “quiet quitting” refers to the act of fulfilling your job description precisely—nothing more, nothing less. It’s about setting clear boundaries between your professional and personal life, opting out of the hustle culture that demands going above and beyond, and prioritizing your well-being.

The “Always On” Culture and Its Discontents

The rise of “quiet quitting” didn’t happen in a vacuum. It’s a symptom of a larger cultural shift, a pushback against the relentless pressure to be “always on” that has permeated many industries.

Technology, while a boon in many ways, has blurred the lines between work and life. Emails follow us home, deadlines loom on weekends, and the expectation to be reachable at all hours persists. This constant connectivity can lead to burnout, anxiety, and a sense of dissatisfaction.

A person working on their laptop in a park, demonstrating a good work-life balance