Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? Unpacking the Latest Workplace Trend
The Rise of “Quiet Quitting“
The term “quiet quitting” has taken the internet by storm, sparking debates about work-life balance, employee engagement, and the nature of a job. But is it really about quitting on the sly, or is it a new term for an age-old concept: setting boundaries?
However, some argue this isn’t new but a reframing of setting boundaries. Employees are pushing back against constant availability and overwork, prioritizing well-being and personal time.
Quiet Quitting vs. Setting Boundaries: What’s the Difference?
While seemingly intertwined, there’s a crucial distinction between quiet quitting and setting boundaries:
- Quiet Quitting: Often perceived as passive-aggressive disengagement. Employees might mentally “check out” while physically remaining, leading to decreased productivity and potentially impacting team morale.
- Setting Boundaries: A proactive approach to establishing a healthy work-life balance. Employees communicate their limits clearly, like not checking emails after work or declining projects outside their scope. This fosters open communication and mutual respect.