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


The Rise of “Quiet Quitting”: What’s the Big Deal?

“Quiet quitting” has exploded into a full-blown phenomenon, dominating online discussions, sparking social media debates, and even fueling think pieces about the modern workforce. But what’s behind this buzzword? Is it a mass exodus of disengaged employees, or simply a new term for the age-old struggle to set healthy boundaries at work?

From TikTok to the Boardroom: Understanding the “Quiet Quitting” Context

The phrase itself is believed to have originated on TikTok, where users (primarily Gen Z and Millennials) started sharing their experiences of doing the bare minimum at work. This wasn’t about neglecting responsibilities, but rather about refusing to go above and beyond, working late, or letting work seep into their personal lives.

This resonated with many who felt increasingly pressured in a work culture that often glorifies the “hustle” and prioritizes availability over well-being. The pandemic, with its blurred lines between work and home life, only amplified this sentiment.

An illustration of a person meditating peacefully with a laptop closed in the background, symbolizing work-life balance