Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? What the Latest Work Trend Really Means



The Rise of “Quiet Quitting”: What’s the Real Story?

The term “quiet quitting” has exploded online, sparking countless articles, social media debates, and think pieces on the state of work-life balance. But is it truly a new phenomenon, or have we simply given a catchy name to an age-old struggle?

Understanding the Context: How Did We Get Here?

The COVID-19 pandemic undeniably reshaped the landscape of work. Remote work, flexible schedules, and the “Great Resignation” all contributed to a reevaluation of priorities for many employees. Suddenly, the lines between work and personal life blurred, leading to burnout and a desire for greater control over one’s time and energy.

Enter “quiet quitting,” a term often misinterpreted as doing the bare minimum at work. In reality, it’s more nuanced. It’s about opting out of the hustle culture mentality, refusing to go above and beyond without proper compensation or recognition, and prioritizing personal well-being over climbing the corporate ladder.

Two people, potentially colleagues, having an open and honest conversation.