The Rise of “Quiet Quitting”: What Does It Mean?
The term “quiet quitting” is making waves in workplaces. But what does it really signify? Is it a silent protest against the pressure to constantly hustle, a healthy shift towards work-life balance, or something else entirely? Like most trends, the answer is complex.
From Social Media Buzzword to Boardroom Debate
Gaining momentum in 2022, the concept of “quiet quitting” spread rapidly on social media, resonating with employees feeling burnt out and disillusioned, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. It describes the act of doing the bare minimum at work, fulfilling job requirements without going above and beyond.
However, this seemingly straightforward definition has sparked debate. Critics argue that it promotes mediocrity and disengagement, while proponents view it as a necessary response to exploitative work environments.
Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? Unpacking the Trend
At its core, “quiet quitting” reflects a growing desire for work-life balance. Employees are questioning the expectation of consistently going the extra mile, especially when it compromises their well-being and personal lives.
Let’s take a closer look at the two sides of this trend:
Setting Healthy Boundaries:
- Prioritizing personal time and commitments outside of work.
- Saying no to unreasonable requests or excessive workloads.
- Focusing on delivering quality work within designated hours.
Disengagement and Apathy:
- Lack of enthusiasm or motivation for work.
- Minimal effort and a decline in work quality.
- Withdrawal from colleagues and a sense of detachment.
The key difference lies in the intention. Setting boundaries is about proactively managing one’s time and energy, while disengagement stems from dissatisfaction and a lack of investment in the job.
