Is ‘Quiet Quitting’ Really the Answer? Exploring Healthy Work Boundaries in 2023





The Rise of Quiet Quitting

The phrase “quiet quitting” has exploded across social media and infiltrated water cooler conversations. It speaks to a growing sentiment among employees: a reluctance to go above and beyond, to pour extra hours into work, and to engage in the hustle culture that often defines professional life. But is this silent disengagement truly the answer to our work-life balance woes?

Beyond the Buzzword: Understanding the Quiet Quitting Context

Before we pass judgment, it’s essential to understand the context fueling this trend. Years of wage stagnation, increased workloads, and blurred lines between personal and professional time have left many feeling burnt out and undervalued. The pandemic further exacerbated these issues, leading to a reevaluation of priorities and a desire for greater autonomy and control over one’s time.

“Quiet quitting,” at its core, is about setting boundaries. It’s about pushing back against the expectation of constant availability and the pressure to go the extra mile, often without proper recognition or compensation.

A person smiling and giving a thumbs up while working on a laptop in a bright, organized office space.