Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? Unpacking the Latest Workplace Trend




Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? Unpacking the Latest Workplace Trend


Introduction: The Rise of “Quiet Quitting

The term “quiet quitting” has taken the internet by storm, sparking countless debates and think pieces. Is it a symptom of a disengaged workforce or a long-overdue rebellion against hustle culture? As with most viral trends, the reality is far more nuanced than catchy headlines suggest. This article delves into the phenomenon of “quiet quitting,” examining its potential causes and consequences while exploring whether it’s truly a new trend or simply a rebranding of an age-old workplace dynamic: setting boundaries.

Understanding the “Quiet Quitting” Phenomenon

Coined in early 2022, “quiet quitting” refers to the act of fulfilling one’s job requirements without going above and beyond. It’s about doing the bare minimum, clocking out mentally and physically at the end of the workday, and resisting the pressure to overwork. While the term might be new, the sentiment it encapsulates is not. Employees have long grappled with burnout, lack of work-life balance, and feeling undervalued—all factors that can contribute to disengagement and a desire to establish firmer boundaries.

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