Is ‘Quiet Quitting’ Just Setting Boundaries in Disguise? The Debate Explained.

Is ‘Quiet Quitting’ Just Setting Boundaries in Disguise? The Debate Explained.

The Great “Quiet Quitting” Debate

The phrase “quiet quitting” has taken the internet by storm, sparking countless articles, social media debates, and even think pieces from major news outlets. But what does it actually mean? Is it a revolutionary act of self-preservation in a demanding work culture or simply a rebranding of an age-old concept?

Understanding the Buzzwords: Quiet Quitting vs. Setting Boundaries

Let’s break it down. “Quiet quitting” generally refers to employees doing the bare minimum at work— fulfilling their job description without going above and beyond. No more late nights, no more taking on extra projects, and a definitive shift in focus from work-life balance to work-life separation.

On the other side of the coin, we have “setting boundaries”—a concept often championed by mental health advocates and productivity gurus alike. This involves clearly defining what you are and are not willing to do at work, and communicating these limits effectively to your employer and colleagues.

A person sitting at a desk with a laptop, smiling and looking relaxed while working.