The Rise of “Quiet Quitting”
Lately, the internet has been abuzz with talk of “quiet quitting.” This seemingly new workplace trend has sparked countless articles, social media debates, and even think pieces on the state of employee engagement. But is quiet quitting really a new phenomenon, or is it just a catchy phrase for something many of us have been doing for years?
Understanding the Trend: What is “Quiet Quitting”?
In essence, “quiet quitting” describes employees who are doing the bare minimum at work. They’re not going above and beyond, they’re not actively seeking promotions, and they’re mentally checking out the minute the clock strikes five (or whenever their workday officially ends).
Some see it as a form of passive resistance to hustle culture and unrealistic job demands. Others view it as a sign of disengagement and a lack of work ethic. The reality, as with most things, is likely more nuanced.
For years, employees were expected to go the extra mile, answer emails at all hours, and blur the lines between work life and personal life. This often led to burnout, resentment, and a lack of work-life balance.
Now, employees are pushing back. They’re setting boundaries to protect their time and well-being. This might look like:
- Leaving work on time
- Not checking emails outside of work hours
- Saying “no” to extra projects when they’re already at capacity
- Prioritizing their mental and physical health
These are not signs of laziness or a lack of commitment; they are signs of healthy boundaries.
