Traditionally, quitting a job comes with a certain set of requirements, such as handing in a written notice and completing a notice period (i.e. working out your two weeks). Yet a new phenomena, known as quiet quitting, has turned the idea of resigning on its head.
Quiet quitting is defined as doing the bare minimum at work. It’s an easy way out. It’s all about doing what is simply required of you so you don’t have to face your boss and inform them you’re leaving. An example might be turning down a project that is outside your scope of work.
While quiet quitting might seem like a good idea, especially to those who are stressed out and unmotivated at work, in the end it may do more serious harm than good.
Quiet Quitting & How it Relates to Your Health
Experts say quiet quitting is a coping mechanism used to confront the issue of burnout and being chronically overworked. Though quiet quitting seems like that right way to empower yourself and set boundaries with your employer, it’s not without great risks.
For instance, your boss or colleagues may notice you are no longer putting in any effort, which in turn may place your position at risk and even cause you to lose out on certain opportunities.
In addition, quiet quitting can have a detrimental effect on your feelings of personal fulfillment by lowering your sense of engagement, purpose, and satisfaction. This leads to a lack of motivation, which ultimately leads to adverse mental health conditions like depression.
How to Quit Successfully Without Putting Your Health at Risk
If you’re considering quitting, take the time to ponder on the pros and cons. Take time to contemplate how your decisions will impact the future of your career.
Next, don’t be afraid to approach your supervisor and ask to have a conversation with them about your thoughts and feelings. While most people display different management styles, no matter the industry, most supervisors are capable of understanding where you’re coming from. Most of the time they have been in your shoes and have been through similar experiences. A good number of employers want to help their employees because they want their employees to be happy and productive. Chat with your boss to see if they would be open to you taking a more active role in crafting your position. The job field is changing, which means responsibilities, expectations, and priorities are evolving as well.
If communicating with your boss proves ineffective and for the sake of your personal and professional well-being you feel that you must move one, be professional and respectful about terminating your employment. Give your supervisor written notice and do your best to work out your notice. Simply, quitting or quiet quitting is never the best option.
Remember, for the sake of your physical and mental well-being, it is important to have a work-life balance and to take measures to ensure that you are not being overworked or placed in stressful situations, however; it is equally important to find a job where you feel a sense of purpose, accomplishment, and motivation.
Sources:
Healthline
Victoria Stokes
August 29, 2022
Health, Wellness, & Restoration 