Quiet quitting, in its simplest form, describes the act of doing the bare minimum at work. It’s about meeting your job requirements but not going above and beyond. It’s about opting out of the hustle culture mentality that glorifies overworking and prioritizing work above all else.

The term itself might be new, but the sentiment behind it is not. Employees have long grappled with burnout, feeling undervalued, and struggling to maintain a healthy work-life balance. What’s different now is the open conversation surrounding these issues and the willingness of individuals to prioritize their well-being, even if it means shifting their relationship with work.

Is It Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries?

The real debate lies in how we interpret this trend. Is it truly “quitting” if you’re still fulfilling your job duties? Or is it a form of self-preservation, a way to set healthy boundaries and protect your mental and emotional well-being?

Here’s why the latter argument might hold more weight:

• Shifting Priorities: The pandemic forced many to re-evaluate what truly matters. Work-life balance gained new importance, and individuals began prioritizing their personal lives, hobbies, and relationships.
• Burnout Epidemic: Overwork and constant pressure have led to widespread burnout, particularly among younger generations. Quiet quitting can be seen as a reaction to this, a way to avoid complete exhaustion and disengagement.
• Lack of Recognition and Reward: When employees feel undervalued or their extra efforts go unnoticed, it’s natural to disengage. Quiet quitting can be a response to a lack of appreciation or career growth opportunities.

Reframing the Quiet Quitting Debate

While I understand the concerns about potential productivity dips, I believe “quiet quitting” is a misnomer. It’s not about shirking responsibility; it’s about reclaiming personal time and setting healthy boundaries.

We need to move away from the “always-on” mentality and create work environments that respect employees’ time and well-being. This includes promoting reasonable workloads, encouraging breaks, and recognizing and rewarding hard work.