The Rise of Quiet Quitting
“Quiet quitting” has become a viral buzzword, sparking countless debates about work-life balance and employee expectations. But is it really a new phenomenon, or just a trendy label for something many of us have been doing for years – setting boundaries?
Understanding the Quiet Quitting Context
The term “quiet quitting” is often attributed to a TikTok video by Zaid Khan, who described it as “rejecting the hustle culture” and “not outright quitting your job, but quitting the idea of going above and beyond.” This resonated with many, particularly millennials and Gen Z, who are increasingly feeling burnt out and disillusioned with the traditional expectations of work.
Several factors have contributed to this sentiment, including:
- The rise of remote work: While offering flexibility, remote work has also blurred the lines between work and personal life for many.
- Increased workload: Companies often expect employees to do more with less, leading to increased stress and burnout.
- Stagnant wages: Despite rising living costs, wages have not kept pace, leaving many feeling undervalued and demotivated.
