The Rise of “Quiet Quitting”: What Does It Mean?
“Quiet quitting” is the latest workplace buzzword. But its meaning isn’t always clear. Is it a wave of disengaged employees silently revolting? Or is it simply a new term for an old concept? As with most trends, the reality is more complex than the headlines suggest.
From Hustle Culture to Healthy Detachment: Shifting Workplace Norms
The rise of “quiet quitting” is arguably a reaction against the pre-pandemic “hustle culture.” Employees were expected to go above and beyond, blurring the lines between work and personal life. But the pandemic forced a collective re-evaluation. The desire for better work-life balance and a rejection of the “always-on” mentality emerged.
Quiet Quitting vs. Boundary Setting: Understanding the Difference
The term “quiet quitting” is itself misleading. It implies a passive form of protest, a silent disengagement from work. While sometimes true, what’s often described is actually a healthy shift towards setting boundaries.
Let’s break down the difference:
- Quiet Quitting: This usually means doing the bare minimum, avoiding extra responsibilities, and generally disengaging from work. It can signal burnout, dissatisfaction, or a lack of growth opportunities.
- Boundary Setting: This involves clearly defining the limits of your work responsibilities and communicating them effectively. It’s about prioritizing well-being, setting realistic expectations, and protecting personal time. This might mean saying no to non-essential tasks outside work hours, taking regular breaks, or using vacation time without guilt.