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

The Rise of “Quiet Quitting

The term “quiet quitting” has taken the internet by storm, sparking countless debates about work ethic, employee engagement, and the ever-evolving relationship between employees and their jobs. But is it really about quitting quietly, or is it something else entirely? This much-discussed phenomenon has ignited a crucial conversation about boundaries, work-life balance, and what it truly means to be engaged in the modern workplace.

Unpacking the Buzzword: What is Quiet Quitting?

“Quiet quitting” refers to the act of doing the bare minimum at work—meeting basic job requirements without going above and beyond. It’s about disengaging emotionally from the hustle culture that often glorifies overworking and prioritizing work above all else.

The trend gained traction in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, a period marked by widespread burnout and a reevaluation of priorities. As people grappled with unprecedented challenges and uncertainties, many began to question the role of work in their lives and seek a healthier, more sustainable work-life balance.

A person smiling while working on a laptop in a comfortable setting