Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? Unpacking the Latest Workplace Trend

The Rise of “Quiet Quitting“: What Does It Mean?

The term “quiet quitting” has exploded online and in workplaces, sparking debates about its true meaning. Is it simply a new term for setting healthy boundaries, or does it signal a deeper issue within our work culture?

Why Now? Understanding the Context

The COVID-19 pandemic drastically changed our relationship with work. Remote work blurred lines between personal and professional lives, often pressuring employees to be “always on.” This, coupled with economic uncertainty, has fueled burnout and disillusionment.

Quiet quitting” emerged to describe employees doing the bare minimum—meeting job requirements, but not exceeding them. They aren’t actively job hunting, but they aren’t going above and beyond either.

A person enjoying their hobbies and free time, looking relaxed and happy.