Just Relaxed Blog

Blog

Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? Navigating the Changing Work Landscape

The Rise of Quiet Quitting and Boundary Setting

The modern workplace is abuzz with terms like “quiet quitting” and “setting boundaries.” These concepts, while seemingly straightforward, have sparked considerable debate and introspection, reflecting a significant shift in how we perceive work and its place in our lives. Gone are the days when clocking in excessive hours and going above and beyond were the sole markers of a dedicated employee. Today, individuals are increasingly prioritizing their well-being and seeking a healthier work-life balance.

The Changing Dynamics of Work

The traditional employer-employee relationship has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years. Factors like globalization, technological advancements, and the rise of the gig economy have blurred the lines between work and personal life. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this trend, forcing many to adapt to remote work and navigate the challenges of integrating professional responsibilities with personal commitments.

This blurring of boundaries, coupled with the ever-increasing demands of the modern workplace, has contributed to a sense of burnout and disillusionment among employees. As a result, individuals are reevaluating their priorities and seeking greater autonomy and control over their work lives. This shift has manifested in two distinct, yet interconnected, trends: quiet quitting and boundary setting.

Quiet Quitting vs. Setting Boundaries: Understanding the Difference

While often used interchangeably, quiet quitting and setting boundaries represent distinct approaches to navigating the workplace. Understanding the nuances of each is crucial:

What is Quiet Quitting? Disengagement and the Bare Minimum

Quiet quitting, in essence, refers to a form of passive resistance where employees fulfill their job requirements but refrain from going above and beyond. It’s about doing the bare minimum, withdrawing from extra tasks, and mentally checking out. While not necessarily negative, it often stems from feeling undervalued, overworked, or burnt out.

March 13, 2025
The Day I Realized My Plant Was Judging My Life Choices

We’ve all been there. You’re two glasses of wine deep, scrolling through pictures of your ex’s new significant other (who, let’s be honest, looks suspiciously like a younger, more successful version of you), when you catch a glimpse of your houseplant in the corner.

And for a split second, you swear, it’s judging you.

The Unforgiving Glare of a Fiddle Leaf Fig (and Other Plant-y Judgments)

My personal journey into the secretly judgmental world of houseplants began, as most things in my life do, with a fiddle leaf fig. This wasn’t just any fiddle leaf fig, though. This was Ferdinand. He was majestic, temperamental, and came with more baggage than my last relationship.

I’d heard the whispers, of course. Fiddle leaf figs are notoriously dramatic, prone to dropping leaves at the slightest change in atmosphere. But I, in all my infinite optimism (read: naiveté), believed Ferdinand and I were different. We were bonded, two souls connected by a shared love of…well, me keeping him alive.

Turns out, Ferdinand wasn’t buying it. Every late night spent binge-watching reality TV instead of, you know, watering him, was reflected in a new brown spot on his leaves. Every hastily ordered takeout meal felt like a personal affront to his delicate sensibilities. He even seemed to wilt a little lower whenever I played my “Break-Up Anthems” playlist on repeat.

Plant Whispering: Decoding the Silent Judgments

It wasn’t just Ferdinand, either. My snake plant, Steve (I have a thing for naming my plants), was a master of passive-aggressive judgment. Forget to water him for a week? No problem, Steve wouldn’t complain…outwardly. But that subtle lean towards the door, as if contemplating a daring escape to a more responsible plant parent, spoke volumes.

And then there was Beatrice, my peace lily, who took her role as the drama queen of the plant world very seriously. One whiff of cigarette smoke from my neighbor’s balcony and she was staging a full-blown theatrical production, complete with wilting leaves and dramatic drooping. It was like living with a tiny, green, overly-sensitive roommate.

I started to notice patterns. The worse my life choices, the more my plants seemed to suffer. Late-night pizza binges were met with disapproving droops. Skipping workouts for Netflix marathons resulted in suspicious brown spots. And let’s not even talk about what happened when I accidentally matched with my ex on Tinder.

Green Mirrors: Reflections on Plant Parenting and Self-Care

Now, I’m not saying my plants are sentient beings plotting my demise (although, let’s be honest, the thought has crossed my mind). But there’s something to be said about the way our plant children seem to reflect our own well-being. Maybe, just maybe, they’re not judging us, but rather serving as little green mirrors, reflecting back at us the things we sometimes try to ignore.

Or maybe I’m just a crazy plant lady overthinking things. What do you think? Share your own hilarious plant parenting stories in the comments below!

March 13, 2025
The Ultimate Guide to Building a Capsule Wardrobe for Every Season
The Ultimate Guide to Building a Capsule Wardrobe for Every Season

Introduction

Tired of staring into a closet full of clothes, yet feeling like you have nothing to wear? It’s a common dilemma, but there’s a stylish solution: the capsule wardrobe. This minimalist approach to fashion focuses on owning a curated collection of versatile, high-quality pieces that can be mixed and matched to create countless outfits.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of building a capsule wardrobe for every season, ensuring you’re always dressed to impress, no matter the weather.

Understanding the Capsule Wardrobe Concept

A capsule wardrobe is about owning less, but loving it more. It’s about investing in timeless pieces that transcend fleeting trends and reflect your personal style. Instead of accumulating fast fashion items that quickly lose their appeal, you’ll curate a collection of essentials that stand the test of time.

Benefits of a Capsule Wardrobe
- Reduced Decision Fatigue: Say goodbye to morning outfit struggles with a streamlined selection of clothes you love.
- Increased Confidence: Knowing you look and feel your best in every outfit boosts confidence.
- Sustainable Fashion Choice: By investing in quality over quantity, you’re embracing a more sustainable approach to fashion.
- Saves Time and Money: Less shopping sprees and impulse buys means more time and money for the things you love.
Building Your Seasonal Capsule Wardrobes

The key to a successful capsule wardrobe is selecting versatile pieces that can be layered and styled for different occasions and weather conditions. Here’s a breakdown of essential items for each season:

Spring Capsule Wardrobe Essentials

Spring is all about fresh starts and light layers. Focus on breathable fabrics and cheerful hues.

Essential Pieces:
- Lightweight Trench Coat
- Denim Jacket (light wash)
- Striped T-shirt
- Flowy Midi Skirt
- White Sneakers
- Ankle Boots
- Crossbody Bag
March 13, 2025
Is ‘Quiet Quitting’ Just Setting Boundaries? What the Trend Gets Right (and Wrong)
Explore the nuances of ‘quiet quitting,’ separating fact from fiction. Discover if it’s truly about setting healthy boundaries or a symptom of deeper workplace issues.

The Quiet Quitting Conundrum

“Quiet quitting” has exploded as a workplace trend, sparking countless think pieces and heated debates. But are we really talking about “quitting” at all? The phrase itself seems almost deliberately provocative, suggesting a workforce disengaged and unwilling to go the extra mile. But beneath the surface lies a more nuanced conversation about employee expectations, work-life balance, and the changing dynamics of the modern workplace.

Decoding the Trend: More Buzzword Than Revolution?

The term “quiet quitting” gained traction on social media, particularly TikTok, where users shared their experiences of doing the bare minimum at work and mentally “checking out.” This phenomenon isn’t exactly new; disengagement and dissatisfaction among employees have been perennial concerns. However, the virality of “quiet quitting” speaks to a growing sentiment, especially among younger generations, that the traditional contract between employer and employee needs reevaluation.

Setting Boundaries vs. Silent Discontent: Unpacking the Nuances

The crux of the “quiet quitting” debate lies in its interpretation. Is it simply about setting healthy boundaries, protecting personal time, and refusing to be defined solely by one’s job? Or does it mask a deeper issue of workplace dissatisfaction, lack of motivation, and ultimately, a detriment to career progression?

Here’s a breakdown:

What “Quiet Quitting” Gets Right:
- The Importance of Boundaries: In our always-on culture, it’s crucial to establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. “Quiet quitting,” when viewed through this lens, encourages employees to prioritize their well-being and avoid burnout.
- Challenging Hustle Culture: The relentless pursuit of “going above and beyond” can be unsustainable and unhealthy. “Quiet quitting” pushes back against this narrative, suggesting that it’s okay to have a life outside of work.
- Redefining Success: The traditional markers of career success (long hours, constant availability) are being questioned. “Quiet quitting” can be seen as a rejection of these outdated notions and a search for more fulfilling and balanced definitions of success.
Where “Quiet Quitting” Misses the Mark:
- Misleading Terminology: The term itself is problematic. “Quitting” implies a complete withdrawal, which isn’t accurate or fair. It also frames the conversation negatively, potentially hindering productive dialogue between employees and employers.
- Oversimplification of Complex Issues: Attributing disengagement solely to a lack of boundaries ignores deeper systemic issues like poor management, lack of growth opportunities, and unfair compensation structures.
- Potential for Misinterpretation: While setting boundaries is healthy, completely disengaging from work can be detrimental to team morale and individual career progression. It’s a delicate balance that requires open communication.
My Perspective: It’s Time to Reframe the Narrative

While I believe “quiet quitting” as a term is flawed, it has ignited a vital conversation. We need to move beyond buzzwords and address the root causes of employee dissatisfaction. This requires a two-way street: employees need to advocate for their needs, and employers need to create supportive and engaging work environments.

Instead of “quiet quitting,” let’s talk about:
1. Boundary Setting: Clearly communicate your work hours and availability. Don’t be afraid to say “no” to requests that fall outside those boundaries.
2. Open Communication: If you’re feeling burnt out or undervalued, speak to your manager. Express your concerns and explore potential solutions together.
3. Redefining Success: Determine what matters most to you in your career and life. Don’t let societal pressures dictate your definition of success.
Finding the Balance: A Collective Effort

Ultimately, the “quiet quitting” trend highlights the need for a more balanced and sustainable work culture. It’s not about quitting quietly but about engaging thoughtfully. By reframing the conversation and focusing on open communication, boundary setting, and mutual respect, we can create work environments where employees feel valued and empowered, not burnt out and disillusioned.
March 13, 2025
The Unspoken Rules of Being a Line-Stander (And Why I’m Now an Expert)
My Line-Standing Origin Story

Let’s be honest, nobody likes waiting in lines. We tolerate them. We endure them. But secretly, we all wish we had a magical teleportation device to bypass these human traffic jams. Well, I recently had an experience that thrust me headfirst into the bizarre world of lines, transforming me from a casual queuer into, dare I say, a Line-Standing Connoisseur.

It all started with my niece’s undying devotion to a certain boy band whose name I’m legally obligated not to mention (let’s just call them “The Heartthrobs”). When their concert tickets went on sale, my sister, bless her soul, volunteered me for the “honor” of securing those golden tickets. Little did I know, this wasn’t just standing in line—this was Line-Standing Bootcamp.
Line-Standing Etiquette
The first thing I learned is that a line is a temporary microcosm of society. You’ve got your chatty Cathy’s, your stoic silent types, your snack smugglers, and the ones who mysteriously disappear for 20 minutes only to return smelling suspiciously of hot dogs. The key is to find your people—those who respect the unspoken code:
- Small Talk is Okay, Life Story Time is Not: A friendly “Crazy weather, huh?” is acceptable. Launching into your detailed genealogy is grounds for eye-rolls.
- Personal Space is Sacred: Unless you’re sharing a life raft, maintain a respectable bubble. Nobody wants to be intimately acquainted with your backpack.
- The Line-Cutter is the Enemy: This is a universal truth. We must band together to thwart those who dare to undermine the very fabric of our orderly queue.
Rule #2: Gear Up for the Long Haul

Remember those survival shows where people pack weeks’ worth of supplies into tiny backpacks? That’s the energy I’m talking about. Here’s a pro-tip from a seasoned veteran (me, obviously):
1. The Essentials: Water bottle, snacks (trail mix is your friend), phone charger (portable battery pack = lifesaver).
2. Comfort is King: Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable. Consider a foldable chair if you’re feeling ambitious (pro-level move).
3. Entertainment: Book, podcast, that Sudoku app you downloaded and swore you’d use—now’s the time, folks.
Oh, and a word on bathroom breaks. Strategize these like a military operation. Coordinate with your line neighbors (remember Rule #1!), and for the love of all that is holy, don’t be that person who holds everyone up because they “didn’t think they had to go” five minutes ago.

March 13, 2025
The Ultimate Guide to Building a Capsule Wardrobe for Every Season
The Ultimate Guide to Building a Capsule Wardrobe for Every Season

Introduction: Embrace the Minimalist Fashion Movement

Tired of staring into a closet overflowing with clothes, yet feeling like you have nothing to wear? You’re not alone. The average American woman owns around 30 outfits but considers 70% of their wardrobe “dead weight.” Enter the capsule wardrobe—a curated collection of essential clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of stylish outfits for any occasion.

This ultimate guide will walk you through building a capsule wardrobe for every season, empowering you to:
- Simplify your life and reduce decision fatigue.
- Save money by investing in quality over quantity.
- Minimize your environmental impact by consuming less.
- Always feel confident and put-together in your clothes.
Capsule Wardrobe Essentials: Understanding the Basics

A capsule wardrobe is a minimalist approach to fashion that focuses on owning fewer, high-quality pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. The key is to choose items in neutral colors that flatter your body type and personal style.

Here are the essential elements of a capsule wardrobe:
1. Base Layers: These form the foundation of your outfits and include items like t-shirts, tank tops, turtlenecks, and long-sleeved shirts.
2. Bottoms: Choose versatile pieces such as jeans, trousers, skirts, and shorts that can be dressed up or down.
3. Dresses: Opt for a few classic styles like a little black dress, a wrap dress, or a shirt dress.
4. Outerwear: Depending on the season, include a denim jacket, leather jacket, blazer, cardigan, coat, or trench coat.
5. Shoes: A pair of sneakers, flats, heels, boots, and sandals will cover most occasions.
6. Accessories: Add personality to your outfits with scarves, jewelry, hats, and bags.
Building Your Seasonal Capsule Wardrobes: A Season-by-Season Guide

While the core principles remain the same, your capsule wardrobe will evolve with each season. Here’s a breakdown of essential pieces to consider:

Spring Capsule Wardrobe: Embrace Light Layers and Fresh Colors

Spring is all about light layers and fresh colors. Incorporate these staples:
- Flowy blouses and tops in pastel shades
- Cropped pants and midi skirts
- A lightweight trench coat or a denim jacket
- Comfortable flats, loafers, or sneakers
- A straw tote bag and colorful scarves
March 13, 2025
Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? What the Latest Work Trend Really Means
Is It Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries at Work?

The Rise of “Quiet Quitting“

The internet loves a buzzword, and “quiet quitting” has become the latest workplace phenomenon to capture our collective attention. But beyond the catchy phrase lies a more nuanced conversation about work-life balance, employee expectations, and the evolving relationship between individuals and their careers. Is “quiet quitting” a sign of apathy and disengagement, or is it simply a long-overdue recalibration of boundaries?

From Hustle Culture to “Doing the Bare Minimum”

For years, “hustle culture” reigned supreme. Employees were encouraged to go above and beyond, blurring the lines between personal and professional life. But the pandemic, coupled with growing awareness of burnout and mental health, has led many to question this always-on mentality. Enter “quiet quitting” – a term that, despite its name, isn’t actually about quitting at all. Instead, it refers to the act of doing the bare minimum required of your job description, clocking out mentally and physically when the workday ends.
Quitting or Healthy Detachment? Unpacking the Trend
The interpretation of “quiet quitting” often depends on who you ask. Some see it as a negative trend, indicative of a disengaged workforce unwilling to contribute beyond the bare minimum. They argue that it stifles innovation and can ultimately harm career progression.

Others, however, view it as a necessary correction to an unsustainable work culture. They argue that “quiet quitting” is less about shirking responsibility and more about establishing healthy boundaries. This perspective emphasizes the importance of prioritizing well-being and reclaiming personal time, ultimately leading to a more sustainable and fulfilling work experience.

So, which interpretation is correct? The reality, as with most things, is likely somewhere in between.

Setting Boundaries, Not Checking Out: Why It Matters

While I understand the concerns about potential disengagement, I believe that the core principle of “quiet quitting” – setting boundaries – is crucial for a healthy work-life balance. It’s not about doing subpar work; it’s about recognizing that our jobs don’t define our entire existence.

Here’s what healthy boundary-setting looks like in the workplace:
- Declining meetings that don’t require your input. Your time is valuable – protect it.
- Unplugging after work hours. Unless it’s a true emergency, work emails and messages can wait.
- Taking your full lunch break. Step away from your desk, recharge, and come back refreshed.
- Using all your vacation time. Time off is essential for rest and rejuvenation – don’t let it go to waste.
March 13, 2025
The Unspoken Rules of the Public Restroom (and the People Who Break Them)

The Unspoken Rules of the Public Restroom (and the People Who Break Them)

A Symphony of Awkwardness in Public Restrooms

The other day, I found myself trapped in one of those airtight, single-occupancy public restrooms. You know the kind – the ones where the walls sweat and the air is thick with the ghosts of hand soap past. I was minding my own business, you know, when suddenly, a sound pierced the delicate silence. It was a symphony of awkward throat clearings and muffled grunts, originating from the stall next door. The culprit was attempting to engage in what can only be described as a full-blown conversation…on speakerphone.

Look, I get it. We all have our bathroom habits, but some things should remain sacred, shrouded in the mystery of porcelain and flickering fluorescent lights. So, in the name of all that is holy and hygienic, let us delve into the unspoken rules of the public restroom, and the people who seem determined to shatter them.

Public Restroom Etiquette: The Phone Zone is a No-Go Zone

Let’s address the elephant in the room, or rather, the ringing phone in the next stall. Public restrooms are not your personal phone booth. No one, and I mean NO ONE, needs a play-by-play of your Aunt Mildred’s bunion surgery while they’re trying to…well, you get the picture.

And while we’re on the topic of phones, let’s talk about speakerphone etiquette. Spoiler alert: there is none. Unless you’re a surgeon directing a life-saving procedure via FaceTime (and even then, questionable), keep your conversations private. We don’t need to know about your Tinder date or your latest stock options.

March 13, 2025
The Beginner’s Guide to Building a Capsule Wardrobe on a Budget
Introduction

Tired of staring into a closet full of clothes yet feeling like you have nothing to wear? You’re not alone! Many people struggle with cluttered wardrobes and decision fatigue. This is where the beauty of a capsule wardrobe comes in. A capsule wardrobe is a curated collection of essential clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of stylish outfits for any occasion. The best part? Building a capsule wardrobe doesn’t have to drain your bank account. With some smart planning and savvy shopping, you can create a versatile and stylish wardrobe on a budget.

Understanding the Basics of a Capsule Wardrobe

Before diving into the how-to, let’s understand the core principles of a capsule wardrobe:
- Quality over Quantity: Invest in fewer, high-quality pieces that will stand the test of time rather than numerous trendy items that quickly go out of style.
- Versatility is Key: Choose items that can be mixed and matched in multiple ways to create a variety of looks.
- Reflect Your Personal Style: Your capsule wardrobe should represent your individual taste and lifestyle. There’s no right or wrong way to do it!
Building Your Budget-Friendly Capsule Wardrobe

Now, let’s break down the steps to building your budget-friendly capsule wardrobe:

1. Declutter and Take Inventory

The first step is to declutter your existing wardrobe. Get rid of anything you don’t wear anymore, items that are worn out, or pieces that no longer fit your style. Once you’ve decluttered, take inventory of what you have left. This will give you a clear idea of what you already own and what gaps need to be filled.

2. Define Your Personal Style and Needs

Think about your personal style, lifestyle, and the types of events or activities you typically dress for. Do you prefer a classic, minimalist, bohemian, or trendy aesthetic? Are you constantly on-the-go, or do you spend most of your time in a more casual setting? Consider your climate and the upcoming season as well.

3. Create a Capsule Wardrobe Essentials List

This is where the magic happens! Based on your style, lifestyle, and inventory, create a list of essential clothing items that will form the foundation of your capsule wardrobe. Here are some versatile pieces to consider:
- Tops: 3-5 basic tees (white, black, grey), 2-3 blouses or shirts, 1-2 sweaters or cardigans
- Bottoms: 1-2 pairs of jeans (different washes), 1-2 pairs of trousers (black, navy, or beige), 1-2 skirts or shorts (depending on your preference and climate)
- Dresses: 1-2 versatile dresses (little black dress, wrap dress, maxi dress)
- Outerwear: 1 classic trench coat, 1 denim jacket, 1 leather jacket (optional)
- Shoes: 1 pair of sneakers, 1 pair of loafers or flats, 1 pair of heels or boots (depending on your needs)
- Accessories: A few key accessories like scarves, jewelry, and bags can instantly elevate any outfit.
Pro Tip: Start with a smaller capsule wardrobe (around 30-40 items) and gradually add more pieces as needed.

4. Shop Smartly and Strategically

Now that you have your list, it’s time to shop! Here are some budget-friendly shopping strategies:
- Shop Your Own Closet First: You might be surprised by what hidden gems you rediscover while decluttering.
- Set a Budget and Stick to It: Determine how much you’re willing to spend and track your expenses.
- Prioritize Quality over Quantity: It’s better to have a few well-made, timeless pieces than a closet full of cheap, trendy clothes that fall apart quickly.
- Take Advantage of Sales and Discounts: Sign up for email newsletters and follow your favorite brands on social media to stay informed about sales and promotions.
- Explore Secondhand Options: Thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces like Poshmark and ThredUp are treasure troves for finding unique and affordable clothing items.
March 13, 2025
Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? Navigating the New Work-Life Debate

Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? Navigating the New Work-Life Debate

The Rise of “Quiet Quitting”: A Sign of the Times?

“Quiet quitting” is the latest buzzword taking the workplace by storm. But what does it really entail? Is it a silent protest against hustle culture, a healthy shift towards work-life balance, or simply a new term for an age-old phenomenon? This growing trend has ignited debates about employee engagement, work-life balance, and the very nature of work in our always-on society.

Decoding the Buzzword: Quiet Quitting in Context

The concept of “quiet quitting” isn’t entirely new. Employees have always grappled with burnout, dissatisfaction, and the desire for better work-life integration. However, the pandemic and the rise of remote work have amplified these issues, leading to a collective re-evaluation of priorities.

Social media has also played a significant role in popularizing the term. Short-form videos and online discussions have provided platforms for employees to share their experiences and normalize the idea of disengaging from work beyond contracted hours.

March 13, 2025