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.