“Quiet quitting” essentially refers to doing the bare minimum at work. Employees who engage in this trend aren’t going above and beyond; they clock in, fulfill their job descriptions, and clock out. While some may view this as career stagnation, others argue it’s a necessary act of self-preservation in today’s demanding work culture.

The rise of remote work and the gig economy has blurred the lines between personal and professional life. The expectation to be “always on,” coupled with stagnant wages and a rising cost of living, has led many to question the value of going the extra mile.

Quiet Quitting vs. Setting Boundaries: A Critical Distinction

While “quiet quitting” might bring to mind images of disengaged employees, it’s crucial to differentiate it from setting healthy boundaries.

Here’s a breakdown:

• Quiet Quitting: Often characterized by apathy and a lack of initiative. It can involve neglecting tasks, avoiding collaboration, and generally disengaging from the workplace.
• Setting Boundaries: Involves proactively communicating limits to ensure work doesn’t encroach on personal time and well-being. This might mean not answering emails after work hours, taking regular breaks, or delegating tasks when overwhelmed.