The Rise of “Quiet Quitting”: A New Trend or Old Wine in a New Bottle?
The internet loves a buzzword, and “quiet quitting” has become the latest viral sensation in the workplace lexicon. Social media feeds are abuzz with think pieces, personal anecdotes, and heated debates about this seemingly new approach to work. But is “quiet quitting” truly a novel concept, or is it simply a rebranding of age-old struggles with work-life balance and employee engagement?
Decoding “Quiet Quitting”: What Does it Really Mean?
At its core, “quiet quitting” refers to the act of employees strictly adhering to their job descriptions and not going above and beyond their stated responsibilities. It’s about setting clear boundaries between work life and personal time, opting not to take on extra tasks, and resisting the pressure to be “always on.” Proponents argue it’s a way to reclaim personal time and avoid burnout in demanding work environments.
Critics, however, see it as a symptom of a disengaged workforce, potentially leading to decreased productivity and a decline in company loyalty. They argue that going the extra mile has always been a part of career progression and that “quiet quitting” fosters a culture of mediocrity.