The Rise of “Quiet Quitting“: Disengagement or Self-Preservation?
The term “quiet quitting” has taken the internet by storm, sparking countless debates about work-life balance, employee expectations, and the very nature of a job. But is this really a new phenomenon, or are we simply putting a trendy name to age-old struggles?
Understanding the Context: From Hustle Culture to Burnout
To truly grasp the “quiet quitting” conversation, we need to acknowledge the backdrop against which it has emerged. The past decade has seen the rise of “hustle culture” – a relentless glorification of overwork, constant availability, and prioritizing career ambition above all else. This mindset, often fueled by social media comparisons and a fear of economic instability, has led to widespread burnout and a reevaluation of priorities.
Enter “quiet quitting.” While definitions vary, it generally refers to employees doing the bare minimum required of their jobs, no longer subscribing to the “go above and beyond” mentality. They clock in and clock out, fulfilling their contractual obligations without offering additional time, energy, or emotional investment.
