In essence, “quiet quitting” refers to the act of doing the bare minimum at work. It’s about fulfilling your job description without going above and beyond, opting out of the hustle culture that often permeates modern workplaces. This can manifest in various ways, from refusing to answer emails outside of work hours to declining extra projects that fall outside your designated responsibilities.

The trend emerged against the backdrop of the Great Resignation, a period marked by record numbers of employees leaving their jobs. While some view “quiet quitting” as a precursor to quitting altogether, others argue that it’s a sustainable way to manage burnout and maintain a healthier work-life balance.

Setting Boundaries or Checking Out: The Quiet Quitting Debate

The debate surrounding “quiet quitting” hinges on the fine line between setting healthy boundaries and disengaging from work.

Arguments for Healthy Boundaries at Work:

• Prioritizing well-being: Proponents argue that it’s crucial to establish limits to prevent burnout and protect mental health, especially in demanding work environments.
• Redefining success: “Quiet quitting” challenges the notion that our worth is solely tied to our productivity and encourages a more balanced approach to work and life.
• Promoting work-life separation: By setting clear boundaries, individuals can reclaim their personal time and prevent work from encroaching on other aspects of their lives.

Arguments Against ‘Quiet Quitting’:

• Impact on career progression: Critics argue that consistently doing the bare minimum can hinder career advancement and limit opportunities for growth.
• Potential for resentment: If not communicated effectively, “quiet quitting” can lead to misunderstandings and resentment from colleagues who may feel overburdened.
• Blurred lines: Defining “bare minimum” can be subjective, and what one person considers reasonable boundaries, another might perceive as a lack of commitment.