Simultaneously, the “Great Resignation” saw millions voluntarily leaving their jobs in pursuit of better opportunities, flexibility, and work-life balance. This wave of resignations highlighted a growing dissatisfaction with traditional work structures and a desire for more autonomy and meaning in one’s career.

Decoding the Trend: Disengagement or Healthy Detachment?

“Quiet quitting” refers to employees doing the bare minimum required of their job description and mentally “checking out” from the hustle culture that often pervades workplaces. This can manifest as:

• Not volunteering for extra projects or taking on tasks outside their defined role.
• Leaving work promptly at the end of the workday and setting boundaries around after-hours communication.
• Disengaging from office politics and non-essential meetings.

While some interpret this as a negative trend indicative of a disengaged workforce, others argue it’s a healthy response to unsustainable work expectations. It can be seen as employees reclaiming their time and energy, prioritizing their well-being, and establishing healthier boundaries between their work and personal lives.

The crucial distinction lies in intention. If “quiet quitting” stems from burnout, feeling undervalued, or a lack of growth opportunities, it signals a deeper issue within the workplace. However, if it’s about consciously choosing to focus on one’s defined role and dedicating energy to personal pursuits outside of work, it can be a positive step towards a more sustainable and fulfilling life.

My Perspective: It’s About Setting Boundaries, Not Checking Out

I firmly believe that “quiet quitting” is less about quitting quietly and more about setting healthy boundaries. It’s about recognizing that our worth as individuals isn’t solely defined by our productivity or our willingness to go above and beyond at the expense of our well-being.

We are not machines programmed for endless output. We are humans with diverse needs, passions, and aspirations beyond our job titles. Setting boundaries ensures we have the time and energy to nurture those other aspects of our lives, leading to greater fulfillment and ultimately, better performance when we are engaged in our work.