For years, workplace culture often celebrated hustle, long hours, and going above and beyond. Motivational slogans filled office desks, and employees were encouraged to exceed expectations in pursuit of promotions and professional success.
But over time, that constant drive began to take a toll.
Conversations around burnout gained momentum, especially after the World Health Organization formally recognized it as a workplace-related syndrome caused by unmanaged chronic stress. Burnout is associated with exhaustion, growing detachment from one’s job, and reduced productivity. As more workers began openly discussing these experiences, attitudes toward work started to shift.
Following the wave of job departures known as the Great Resignation in 2021, another term began circulating online: “quiet quitting.”
What Does “Quiet Quitting” Mean?
Despite how it sounds, quiet quitting does not involve resigning from a job. Instead, it refers to setting clearer boundaries at work and limiting tasks to those outlined in one’s job description.
In practical terms, that might include declining additional projects, leaving work at the scheduled end of the day, or choosing not to engage in extra responsibilities that go beyond what is required. Supporters say the goal is not to reduce effort entirely, but to avoid overextending themselves in ways that may lead to stress or burnout.
The concept gained widespread attention on TikTok, where users described scaling back their work habits after years of taking on more than necessary. Many said they previously felt pressure to constantly prove themselves by accepting every request or volunteering for extra duties.
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A Shift in Workplace Mindset
Some professionals have framed quiet quitting as a response to changing priorities. Instead of tying identity and self-worth to productivity, workers are increasingly emphasizing balance and well-being.
Josh Bittinger, who works in management consulting, told The Wall Street Journal that the approach can help prevent burnout. After years of consistently saying yes to every opportunity in hopes of advancing, he began setting firmer boundaries to protect his time and energy.
Similarly, TikTok creator Clayton Farris shared that adopting a quieter approach to work improved his mental health. According to him, his overall output did not decrease. Instead, he felt less internal pressure and stress while maintaining his responsibilities.
For many, the term represents a shift away from constant hustle toward a more sustainable way of working.
@claytonfarris4ever Have you ever tried QUIETLY QUITTING? 🤫#quietquitting #mindfulness #lettinggo #hustle
Not Everyone Agrees
While the trend has resonated with many employees, it has also sparked debate.
Some critics argue that quiet quitting may not be realistic for everyone. Creator Stephanie Perry pointed out that workplace expectations can vary significantly, particularly for Black women. She suggested that in some environments, individuals may face greater pressure to take on additional responsibilities and could experience consequences if they attempt to scale back.
Others believe communication may be a more effective approach. Creator Emily Smith argued that managers may not always be aware of how much work an employee is handling. Rather than quietly reducing effort, she suggested discussing workload concerns directly and clarifying priorities.
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An Ongoing Conversation
Whether viewed as a healthy boundary-setting strategy or a potentially misunderstood trend, quiet quitting reflects broader conversations about workplace expectations. As employees reassess their relationship with work, discussions about burnout, balance, and productivity continue to evolve.
The term may have originated on social media, but the questions it raises about professional boundaries and sustainable work habits remain relevant across industries.
