The Rise of Quiet Quitting: Disengagement or Employee Empowerment?
The term “quiet quitting” is creating a buzz in workplaces. This seemingly new phenomenon has ignited debates, with some perceiving it as concerning employee disengagement, while others view it as a necessary shift towards a healthier work-life balance. But what does “quiet quitting” really mean, and is it truly a new concept, or a rebranding of an age-old struggle?
Decoding the Trend: Unrealistic Expectations and the Modern Workplace
At its core, “quiet quitting” involves employees fulfilling their job responsibilities without going above and beyond. They aren’t actively seeking new employment, but they’re also rejecting the “hustle culture” prevalent in many modern workplaces. This can manifest as refusing to work late, not checking emails outside work hours, or declining additional projects.
However, the expectation of consistently exceeding job requirements is a relatively recent development. Historically, work had clearer boundaries. The rise of technology, the gig economy, and a culture fixated on productivity have blurred the lines between personal and professional time. It’s no surprise that employees are pushing back.
