Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? What the Latest Work Trend Really Means



The Rise of “Quiet Quitting

The term “quiet quitting” has exploded across social media and infiltrated workplace conversations, sparking debates and raising eyebrows. But what does it actually mean? Is it a revolutionary act of self-preservation or a recipe for career stagnation?

Unpacking the Buzzword: What is “Quiet Quitting“?

The phrase itself is somewhat misleading. “Quiet quitting” doesn’t necessarily involve actually quitting your job. Instead, it refers to the act of doing the bare minimum at work, no more, no less. It’s about fulfilling your job description without going above and beyond, essentially setting clear boundaries between your professional and personal life.

The trend gained momentum amidst the Great Resignation, a period marked by record numbers of employees leaving their jobs. This wave of resignations highlighted the growing dissatisfaction and burnout prevalent in many workplaces. “Quiet quitting” can be seen as a response to this, a way for employees to reclaim their time and energy without completely abandoning ship.

Quiet Quitting vs. Setting Boundaries: What’s the Difference?

While often used interchangeably, “quiet quitting” and “setting boundaries” are not synonymous. There’s a fine line between the two, and understanding the difference is crucial:

Quiet Quitting: Signs and Implications