Quiet Quitting: The New Pandemic?

Have you heard of quiet quitting?

After more than 17 million uses of #QuietQuitting on TikTok, press articles and other social media websites are now buzzing with it all over the world.

So what is quiet quitting?

Quiet quitting is different from leaving your work permanently. Depending on who you ask, the term "quiet quitting" can indicate a variety of things, but many people interpret it as just performing your job and nothing more or less. It also refers to striking a better work-life balance by performing what is necessary and moving on with your life.                      

Quiet Quitting is the new normal

The topic of quiet quitting has received a lot of attention. Workers are increasingly only putting in a minimum level of effort to get through the workday.

Businesses had been under a lot of stress over the last two years as a result of the epidemic, which caused employees to work even harder than before to keep their organizations viable. Chronic overwork had gotten worse as a result.

In light of this mindset, the idea of "silent resigning," in which professionals give up the notion of going above and beyond at work, has grown increasingly appealing, particularly among Gen-Z professionals. Quiet quitters advise those who can't afford to leave their jobs to concentrate on the key responsibilities of a position.

According to career advisers, workers should make a list of all the aspects of their jobs that they enjoy and do not enjoy before rearranging their schedules and establishing objectives for themselves according to that.

But why is it happening?

While some say,  Covid-19 burnout might be to blame for the beginning of quiet quitting and some comment that it is because of the fear of layoffs going on, let us look at some concrete reasons for it.

1. Part time side business- Due to inflation, to meet the financial demands, and to support the family, many employees have turned to side jobs, which has further blurred the lines between work and home.
2. Not being recognized or seeing purpose- The stage of life that each employee is in varies. Someone who is just beginning their first employment can be struggling with debt from their education. A mid-career worker might need to take care of children. There are many distinct priorities and possibilities at each stage. Some of these are not considered, thus leading them to lose interest in their jobs.
3. Not addressing mental wellness- Utilizing online counseling and mindfulness apps might increase access to mental health. Employees' general well-being may be greatly enhanced by tools, services, and perks including employee support programs, mental health days, and stress management training. Addressing holistic wellness through competitive rewards could help. 

Conclusion

Employees who "quiet leave" are making it evident to their employers what they want from them to be motivated and engaged. The requirements are unmistakable: a strong, welcoming atmosphere and extensive benefits that cover every facet of wellbeing. Companies can retain top talent while simultaneously doing the right thing for their employees by recognising employee problems, promoting work/life balance, and fostering all elements of wellbeing.