Is ‘Quiet Quitting’ Really the Answer? Exploring Healthy Work-Life Boundaries in 2023
The Rise of Quiet Quitting
“Quiet quitting” has become a ubiquitous phrase in the workplace lexicon. But what does it actually mean? In essence, it’s the act of doing the bare minimum at work—meeting your job requirements without going above and beyond. No more burning the midnight oil, no more taking on extra projects, and certainly no more sacrificing personal time for the sake of “company loyalty.”
Is this a sign of a disengaged, entitled workforce, or a much-needed rebellion against the always-on work culture? The answer, like most things in life, is nuanced.
The Burnout Backdrop
To understand “quiet quitting,” we need to understand its context. The COVID-19 pandemic blurred the lines between work and home for many. Remote work, while offering flexibility, often led to longer hours and an expectation of constant availability.
This blurring of boundaries contributed to widespread burnout, particularly among Millennials and Gen Z. A 2021 study by Indeed found that 52% of all workers reported feeling burned out, with younger generations experiencing it at even higher rates.
