Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? Unpacking the Latest Workplace Trend




Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? Unpacking the Latest Workplace Trend

The Rise of “Quiet Quitting”

The term “quiet quitting” has exploded online, sparking countless articles, social media debates, and think pieces about the modern workforce. But is this truly a new phenomenon or simply a new name for an age-old struggle with work-life balance? More importantly, is it the right approach for employees feeling burnt out and undervalued?

The History of Work-Life Imbalance

While the phrase “quiet quitting” might be new, the sentiment behind it is not. Employees have always faced feelings of being overworked, underpaid, and unappreciated. The COVID-19 pandemic, with its blurring of work-life boundaries and increased demands on employees, seems to have exacerbated these feelings, leading to a surge in people re-evaluating their relationship with work.

Proponents of “quiet quitting” argue that it’s about setting healthy boundaries, prioritizing well-being, and rejecting the “hustle culture” that often leads to burnout. Critics, however, view it as a passive-aggressive approach that ultimately hurts both the employee and the employer.

Two people having a conversation in an office, looking engaged and positive