The Rise of “Quiet Quitting”: A New Term for an Old Problem?
The internet is buzzing with a new term: “quiet quitting.” But is it really a new phenomenon, or just a fresh coat of paint on an age-old workplace dilemma? This trend, characterized by employees doing the bare minimum at work and mentally checking out, has sparked heated debates about work-life balance, employee engagement, and the changing dynamics between employers and employees.
Why “Quiet Quitting” Now? Understanding the Root Causes
The rise of “quiet quitting” can be attributed to several factors:
- Burnout Culture: The always-on, hustle culture prevalent in many industries has left employees feeling overworked and undervalued, leading to disengagement and apathy.
- The Pandemic Effect: The COVID-19 pandemic forced a reassessment of priorities for many, with work-life balance taking center stage.
- The Great Resignation: The mass exodus of employees from their jobs during the pandemic empowered those who stayed to demand better treatment and set firmer boundaries.