Is ‘Quiet Quitting’ Really the Answer? Exploring Healthy Work-Life Boundaries in 2023



The Rise of ‘Quiet Quitting’

The term “quiet quitting” has exploded across social media and infiltrated water cooler conversations in workplaces everywhere. But what exactly does it mean? In essence, it describes the act of doing the bare minimum at work—fulfilling your job description without going above and beyond. No more burning the midnight oil, no more volunteering for extra projects, no more subscribing to the “hustle culture” mentality.

From Burnout to Boundaries: Understanding the Shift

The rise of quiet quitting can be seen as a reaction to several factors. The COVID-19 pandemic forced many to re-evaluate their priorities, with well-being taking center stage. Simultaneously, the “Great Resignation” emboldened employees to seek better work-life balance and reject toxic work environments.

The always-on, hyper-connected nature of modern work has also played a role. Emails pinging at all hours, the pressure to be “on” even during personal time—it’s no wonder people are feeling burnt out and seeking ways to reclaim their time and energy.

A person enjoying a peaceful moment in nature, symbolizing self-care and work-life balance