The Rise of “Quiet Quitting”
It seems everyone’s whispering about “quiet quitting” these days. The term, which exploded across social media, describes the act of doing the bare minimum at work—no more, no less. You’re not storming out the door, but you’re not going above and beyond either. You’re fulfilling your job description, and not a single task more.
Proponents praise it as a way to reclaim work-life balance and prioritize mental health in a demanding work culture. Critics, however, argue it’s a recipe for career stagnation and a surefire way to earn the ire of managers and colleagues. So, which is it? A silent revolution or a repackaged term for an old problem?
Unpacking the Trend: Coasting vs. Quiet Quitting
To understand “quiet quitting,” we need to differentiate it from its predecessor: coasting. Coasting at work generally implies a sense of complacency. You’re comfortable, maybe even bored, and lack the motivation to push yourself further.
Quiet quitting, on the other hand, is often framed as a deliberate act of resistance against hustle culture and unrealistic expectations. It’s about setting boundaries, prioritizing well-being, and pushing back against the idea that our worth is solely defined by our productivity.
