Quiet Quitting and Boundary Setting
The modern workplace is a whirlwind of expectations, often leaving employees feeling pressured to go above and beyond. In this environment, two distinct but often conflated trends have emerged: quiet quitting and boundary setting. Both involve a conscious shift in employee behavior, but understanding their nuances is crucial for both individuals and organizations.
From Hustle Culture to Healthy Detachment
For years, “hustle culture” reigned supreme, glorifying long hours and unwavering dedication. Employees were encouraged, often implicitly, to prioritize work above all else. However, the pandemic forced a collective reevaluation of priorities, with many questioning the sustainability of this always-on mentality.
This shift in perspective paved the way for “quiet quitting” to enter the mainstream. Characterized by doing the bare minimum at work and mentally checking out, quiet quitting is seen by some as a form of silent protest against exploitative work practices. Others view it as a symptom of a disengaged workforce, lacking motivation and passion.
