Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? What the Latest Workplace Trend Really Means

Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? Decoding the Latest Workplace Trend

The modern workplace is buzzing with a new phrase: “quiet quitting.” But what does it really mean? Is it a mass exodus of disengaged employees, or is it a sign that people are finally prioritizing their well-being and setting healthy boundaries?

From Buzzword to Boardroom: Understanding the “Quiet Quitting” Trend

The term “quiet quitting” exploded on social media, particularly TikTok, in 2022. It describes the act of fulfilling one’s job duties to the letter, without going above and beyond or engaging in extra activities. Imagine clocking in and out precisely on time, participating minimally in meetings, and declining non-essential projects.

While the term is new, the sentiment behind it is not. Employees have long grappled with burnout, feeling undervalued, and struggling to balance work with personal life. “Quiet quitting” can be seen as a response to these pressures, a way to reclaim some control in a demanding work environment.

Two people having a conversation at a desk with a laptop, notepad, and coffee mugs, suggesting open communication in the workplace