Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? Unpacking the Latest Workplace Trend

Is Quiet Quitting Just Setting Boundaries? Unpacking a Workplace Trend

Introduction: The Rise of “Quiet Quitting

The term “quiet quitting” has exploded online, igniting discussions about work-life balance, employee expectations, and what it means to be a dedicated worker. But is this trend truly about secretly quitting, or does it signal a much-needed shift towards setting healthy boundaries in today’s demanding workplaces?

Understanding the “Quiet Quitting” Phenomenon

Originating on TikTok, “quiet quitting” describes employees pushing back against hustle culture and the pressure to constantly go above and beyond. It boils down to fulfilling your job description without taking on extra tasks or subscribing to the “always-on” mentality.

Several factors have contributed to this trend: the rise of remote work blurring personal and professional lines, the “Great Resignation” highlighting employee dissatisfaction, and a growing awareness of burnout and mental health.