The Rise of “Quiet Quitting“
The term “quiet quitting” has exploded recently, flooding social media and dominating water cooler conversations. It seems everyone has an opinion on this supposed new trend where employees do the bare minimum and refuse to go above and beyond. But is this truly a new phenomenon, or have we simply slapped a trendy label on an age-old issue?
Understanding the Context: Why Now?
To understand “quiet quitting,” we need to look at the context in which it emerged. The COVID-19 pandemic caused a dramatic shift in how we work. Remote work blurred the lines between personal and professional lives, often leading to longer hours and burnout. At the same time, the rise of hustle culture glorified overworking and constant availability. Is it any surprise that employees are pushing back?
Despite the name, “quiet quitting” isn’t about quitting your job at all. It’s about reclaiming your time and energy by setting boundaries. It’s about refusing to let work consume your life and choosing to prioritize your well-being.
What does “quiet quitting” often look like in practice?
- Leaving work on time: No more staying late to answer emails or finish projects that can wait until tomorrow.
- Not checking work messages outside of work hours: Weekends and evenings are for personal time, not for responding to work requests.
- Focusing on assigned tasks: Going above and beyond is great, but not when it comes at the expense of personal well-being or neglecting core responsibilities.
Sound familiar? These aren’t signs of laziness; they’re signs of healthy boundaries.
Setting Boundaries is Essential, Not Entitled
Let’s be clear: setting boundaries isn’t about shirking responsibility or doing subpar work. It’s about recognizing that we are more than our jobs. We have lives, families, passions, and responsibilities outside of work.
When we allow work to encroach on every aspect of our lives, we risk burnout, decreased productivity, and diminished mental and physical health. Setting boundaries allows us to show up as our best selves, both at work and in our personal lives.