The Rise of “Quiet Quitting”: Is It a New Problem?
The term “quiet quitting” has taken the internet by storm, sparking debates on social media and news outlets. But is this truly a new phenomenon, or are we simply slapping a trendy label on an age-old struggle – the quest for a healthier work-life balance?
Quiet Quitting and The Great Resignation: Understanding the Context
To understand “quiet quitting,” we need to consider the backdrop against which it emerged. The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a global wave of burnout, with employees facing increased workloads, blurred work-life boundaries, and economic uncertainty. This, coupled with pre-existing issues like hustle culture and toxic work environments, fueled the Great Resignation, as millions chose to leave their jobs in search of better opportunities and greater well-being.
Enter “quiet quitting.” Rather than outright resignation, this trend describes employees who choose to stay in their current roles but mentally “check out.” They perform the bare minimum required, detach emotionally from their work, and prioritize their personal lives over going above and beyond.
