What is Quiet Quitting?

Have you ever found yourself doing the bare minimum at work, avoiding extra tasks, and feeling disconnected from your job? If so, you might be experiencing what’s now being called "quiet quitting." While this term is gaining traction, it doesn’t mean you’re quitting your job—instead, it refers to a growing trend among employees and job seekers to set boundaries and prioritize personal well-being over constantly going the extra mile at work. Let’s dive into what quiet quitting really means, why it’s happening, and how you can handle it to protect both your mental health and career growth.

What Is quiet quitting?

Quiet quitting doesn’t involve handing in your resignation or walking away from your job. It’s a choice to fulfill your job responsibilities without exceeding them, deliberately avoiding extra tasks that aren’t part of your job description. This approach often stems from a desire to maintain a healthy work-life balance, prevent burnout, or push back against a culture of overwork.

For many, quiet quitting is a response to feeling overwhelmed or undervalued at work. It’s a silent way of saying, “I’m here to do my job, but not at the cost of my well-being.”

Why are more people quiet quitting?

Understanding why quiet quitting is on the rise can help you decide how to navigate it. Here are some of the key reasons:

Burnout and overwork: The boundaries between work and home life have blurred, especially with the rise of remote work. Many employees feel they are always “on,” leading to burnout and a need to step back.
Changing attitudes Toward Work: More people are questioning the traditional "hustle culture" that glorifies long hours and sacrifices. Younger generations, in particular, value balance and fulfillment, choosing not to define their worth solely by their career.
Lack of recognition: If you feel unappreciated or your contributions aren’t acknowledged, you might feel less motivated to go beyond what’s required. When hard work isn’t recognized, it’s easy to wonder, “Why bother?”
Desire for a better work-life balance: For many, the pandemic was a wake-up call about what truly matters. People are now more focused on balancing work with their personal lives, leading them to withdraw from non-essential tasks.
Remote work challenges: While remote work has its perks, it can also lead to isolation, communication issues, and a lack of team connection, causing some to disengage.

What does quiet quitting mean for your career?

Quiet quitting can have both short-term benefits and long-term consequences for your career. In the short term, it might help you reduce stress and avoid burnout by maintaining clear boundaries between work and personal life. However, it’s important to be aware that consistently doing only the minimum can impact your career growth, limit opportunities for advancement, and potentially affect job security. Employers may notice a lack of engagement, and this could lead to being overlooked for promotions or more challenging assignments.

How to navigate quiet quitting while protecting your career

If you’re feeling like quiet quitting is the right choice for you, here are some tips to help you manage it while still maintaining a positive trajectory for your career:

Reflect on your career goals: Consider what you want from your job and career. Are you quiet quitting because you’re genuinely unhappy, or do you just need a temporary break from the demands of work? Understanding your motivations can help you decide the best way forward.
Communicate openly with your manager: If you feel comfortable, have a conversation with your manager about your workload, stress levels, and any feelings of burnout. Expressing your concerns might lead to a more balanced workload or new opportunities that align better with your skills and interests.
Set healthy boundaries: Make sure you are clear about your working hours and stick to them. Politely decline tasks that go beyond your role or negatively impact your work-life balance. Remember, setting boundaries is about self-respect and preserving your energy for the things that matter most.
Focus on what you can control: If you can’t change your job circumstances immediately, focus on what you can control. This might include seeking out professional development opportunities, connecting with like-minded colleagues, or finding small ways to make your work more enjoyable.
Consider alternative paths: If you find yourself consistently disengaged or unhappy, it might be time to consider a new role or even a career change. Use this period to explore your options, update your resume, and prepare for your next move.
Seek support and resources: Look for support within your organization or externally. This could be through employee assistance programs, mentorship, or networking groups. Finding allies and support can help you feel less isolated and more empowered.

Quiet quitting is a signal, not an end

Quiet quitting is not necessarily about giving up; it’s about finding balance and protecting your well-being. If you’re feeling disconnected from your job, use this moment to evaluate what’s important to you, by doing so, you can turn the concept of quiet quitting into a positive force for change in your career.