Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? What This Work Trend Really Means
The Rise of “Quiet Quitting“: A New Name for an Old Struggle?
Lately, the internet has been buzzing with talk of “quiet quitting.” This seemingly new workplace phenomenon has sparked countless debates, think pieces, and even a TikTok trend. But is quiet quitting really a new phenomenon, or is it simply a fresh coat of paint on the age-old struggle for work-life balance?
Decoding the Buzzword: What is “Quiet Quitting“?
The term itself can be a bit misleading. Quiet quitting doesn’t necessarily involve actually quitting your job. Instead, it’s about doing the bare minimum required of you and mentally “checking out” from the hustle culture that often pervades many workplaces. Think strictly adhering to your job description, resisting the urge to go above and beyond, and prioritizing your personal time over late nights at the office.
This trend emerged in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced many to re-evaluate their priorities and relationship with work. Burnout rates soared, and the lines between work and personal life blurred. Quiet quitting, for some, became a way to reclaim their time and mental energy.