The Rise of “Quiet Quitting“: A New Phenomenon or Age-Old Struggle?
The internet is abuzz with talk of “quiet quitting” – a term that has sparked debate and ignited conversations about work-life balance, employee expectations, and the very nature of employment in today’s world. But is this truly a new phenomenon, or simply a fresh label for the age-old struggle of setting boundaries in the workplace?
From Hustle Culture to the Great Resignation: Understanding the Context
To understand the rise of “quiet quitting,” we must first acknowledge the context in which it has emerged. The past decade has witnessed the glorification of “hustle culture” – a relentless pursuit of productivity and achievement often at the expense of personal well-being. This relentless drive, coupled with stagnant wages and increasing economic pressures, has led to widespread burnout and disengagement among employees.
The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated these issues, forcing many to confront the unsustainable nature of their work-life balance. The “Great Resignation” followed, with millions quitting their jobs in search of better opportunities, greater flexibility, and a renewed sense of purpose. It’s against this backdrop of widespread disillusionment and a re-evaluation of priorities that “quiet quitting” has taken center stage.
