The term itself might suggest employees stealthily abandoning their posts, but the reality is far less dramatic. “Quiet quitting” refers to the growing sentiment of employees, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, who are rejecting the idea of going above and beyond in their jobs. They are no longer subscribing to the “hustle culture” mentality that often leads to burnout and diminished work-life balance.

This shift in attitude can be attributed to various factors:

• Burnout: Years of overwork and pressure to constantly prove oneself have taken a toll on employees’ well-being.
• Changing Priorities: Younger generations are increasingly prioritizing personal fulfillment and mental health over climbing the corporate ladder at all costs.
• The Rise of Remote Work: The pandemic-induced shift to remote work blurred the lines between professional and personal lives, making it crucial for employees to establish boundaries.

Setting Boundaries, Not Quitting on Commitment

Here’s the crucial distinction: “quiet quitting” is not about neglecting one’s responsibilities or delivering subpar work. Instead, it’s about setting healthy boundaries between work life and personal life. It’s about doing your job effectively within the designated hours and refusing to let work consume your evenings, weekends, and vacations.

This means:

1. Leaving work at work: Resist the urge to check emails or finish tasks outside of work hours.
2. Taking breaks: Regular breaks throughout the day can prevent burnout and improve productivity.
3. Saying “no” when necessary: It’s okay to decline additional tasks if you’re already at capacity.