At its core, “quiet quitting” means doing the bare minimum at work. It’s about fulfilling your job description without going above and beyond, opting out of the “hustle culture” often prevalent today.

This trend emerged post-COVID-19, as burnout and the “Great Resignation” led many to re-evaluate their relationship with work. The pandemic blurred work-life boundaries, leaving many feeling overworked and underappreciated. “Quiet quitting” became a silent protest, a way to reclaim personal time and prioritize well-being without drastic career changes.

Quiet Quitting vs. Setting Boundaries: Understanding the Difference

While “quiet quitting” seems straightforward, it’s crucial to distinguish it from setting healthy boundaries.

Quiet Quitting:

• Often fueled by negativity or resentment towards the job.
• Involves doing the absolute minimum, potentially impacting team morale and productivity.
• Can be a passive-aggressive response to workplace dissatisfaction.

Setting Boundaries:

• Proactive and communicative approach to managing workload and expectations.
• Focuses on achieving sustainable work-life balance without compromising quality.
• Involves open dialogue with managers and colleagues to establish clear expectations.

The key difference lies in approach and intention. “Quiet quitting” often stems from disengagement and apathy, while setting boundaries is about taking ownership of your well-being and advocating for a sustainable work life.