This perfect storm fueled the “Great Resignation” – a wave of employees leaving their jobs for better opportunities, flexibility, and a healthier relationship with work. “Quiet quitting” can be seen as a symptom of this trend, a way for employees to reclaim their time and energy without quitting their jobs.

Setting Boundaries vs. Checking Out: Unpacking the Nuances

The heart of the “quiet quitting” debate lies in its interpretation. Some argue it’s about setting healthy boundaries:

• Declining non-essential tasks outside of working hours.
• Taking designated breaks throughout the day.
• Prioritizing personal well-being alongside professional responsibilities.

From this perspective, “quiet quitting” is about working smarter and setting realistic expectations, not doing less work. It’s about rejecting a culture of overwork and presenteeism.

However, others see “quiet quitting” as disengagement, a passive-aggressive response to job dissatisfaction:

• Doing the bare minimum without seeking solutions or improvements.
• Withdrawing emotionally from the workplace and colleagues.
• Allowing resentment and apathy to fester.

This interpretation suggests “quiet quitting” can be detrimental, hindering individual growth and team morale.

Open Communication and Mutual Respect: The Key to a Healthy Work-Life Balance

The key to navigating this conversation is open communication and mutual respect between employers and employees. Setting healthy boundaries is not only acceptable but essential for a sustainable and fulfilling work life. Employees should feel empowered to communicate their needs, whether it’s flexible working hours or clear expectations regarding workload.