Is ‘Quiet Quitting’ Really the Answer? Examining the Gen Z Trend Taking Over the Workplace
The Silent Shift: What is ‘Quiet Quitting’?
It’s a phrase that’s flooded our newsfeeds and sparked countless debates: quiet quitting. But what exactly does it mean? In a nutshell, quiet quitting describes the act of fulfilling your job requirements without going above and beyond. Think: working strictly within your contracted hours, taking your allotted breaks, and politely declining extra responsibilities. It’s not about slacking off, but rather, setting healthy boundaries between your personal and professional life.
From TikTok to the Boardroom: The Rise of Quiet Quitting
While the concept itself isn’t new, the term ‘quiet quitting’ exploded on TikTok in 2022, quickly gaining traction amongst Gen Z and Millennials. This generation, often characterized by their desire for work-life balance and rejection of hustle culture, resonated with the idea of prioritizing well-being over the traditional expectations of overworking.
But why now? The pandemic undoubtedly played a role. Widespread burnout, coupled with the rise of remote work, blurred the lines between personal and professional life. This led many to re-evaluate their priorities and seek a more sustainable work style.