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





The Rise of “Quiet Quitting

The term “quiet quitting” has taken social media and workplaces by storm, sparking debates about its true meaning. Is it a form of self-preservation in demanding work environments, or does it signify a lack of career ambition?

quitting” coincides with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought about significant changes in work dynamics. Remote work blurred the lines between professional and personal lives, leading to increased burnout. Many employees, feeling overworked and undervalued, began seeking a healthier work-life balance.

This is where “quiet quitting” comes in—a term some argue is misleading. It’s not about actually quitting your job but rather a shift in mindset. Instead of going above and beyond, individuals are setting boundaries, fulfilling their job requirements without subscribing to the “hustle culture” of overwork.

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

The key difference lies in the intention. Let’s break it down:

Quiet Quitting:

  • Disengagement: Characterized by apathy or a sense of detachment from work.
  • Minimal Effort: Doing the bare minimum required for the role.
  • Lack of Initiative: Avoiding taking on new responsibilities or challenges.

Setting Boundaries:

  • Prioritization: Establishing clear boundaries between work hours and personal time.
  • Sustainable Pace: Focusing on delivering quality work within a reasonable timeframe.
  • Open Communication: Communicating needs and expectations clearly with managers and colleagues.

While “quiet quitting” can be seen as a passive form of resistance, setting boundaries is about actively creating a healthier and more sustainable work-life balance.