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 evolving relationship between employers and employees. But is it truly a new phenomenon, or are we simply putting a catchy label on an age-old struggle for work-life balance?
What is Quiet Quitting? Understanding the Context
The concept of “quiet quitting” refers to employees doing the bare minimum required of their job description, effectively disengaging from going above and beyond. This can manifest in various ways, such as:
- Strictly adhering to work hours and refusing to work late.
- Declining projects or tasks outside their defined responsibilities.
- Showing less enthusiasm or initiative in team meetings.
Several factors contribute to this trend. The COVID-19 pandemic forced many to re-evaluate their priorities, with work-life balance taking center stage. Additionally, the rise of hustle culture and unrealistic expectations in some workplaces have led to burnout and disillusionment among employees.
