Is it Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? Unpacking the Latest Workplace Trend
Introduction: The Rise of “Quiet Quitting“
The term “quiet quitting” has exploded online, igniting debates about its true meaning and impact. Is it a sign of declining employee morale, a symptom of widespread burnout, or simply a new name for an old workplace phenomenon? This article dives into the core of the issue, examining the trend and its implications for both employees and employers.
What is Quiet Quitting? Understanding the Basics
Emerging in early 2022, “quiet quitting” describes the act of doing the bare minimum at work— fulfilling your job description without going above and beyond. This can manifest as refusing overtime, disengaging from non-essential projects, or generally opting out of the “hustle culture” mentality.
The trend gained traction following the COVID-19 pandemic, a period marked by widespread burnout and a reevaluation of work-life balance. Many employees, having experienced the benefits of flexible schedules and remote work, began questioning the traditional expectations of the workplace.
