There has been a lot said over these last couple of weeks about “quiet quitting”, so what do I hope to bring to the conversation that hasn’t been written? In my style, I hope I can provide some thoughts, some nuance, and maybe, just maybe, a perspective for you to consider.
First, what is “quiet quitting?” Personally, I feel it’s a disingenuous phrase about people doing their work and not buying into “hustle” culture to go above and beyond without recognition or compensation. People who may even like their job, but don’t want to “fast track” into middle or upper management (which isn’t guaranteed anyway). It’s not quitting at all. A corollary I read from Adam Broda on LinkedIn (https://lnkd.in/giK9RPQq) talks about “quiet managing”, asking managers to get out of the way of their team and helping their team to be successful. Then there’s the “quiet firing” from Bonnie Dilber on LinkedIn (https://lnkd.in/g5mcRdQg), which addresses the common bad leadership aspect of not providing feedback, minimal raises and promotions, layoffs, etc. Both of these thoughts are brilliant and take the focus off the person who is doing what they were hired to do.
Here's what I think is missing from the discussion; it’s about YOU. Where are you in your career? Are you where you want to be? Are you currently just holding on for dear life? Are you doing meaningful work that makes you fulfilled? Do you want to rise to a leadership position where you’re at, or do you love the work you do and don’t want the “extras” by getting promoted? Is this “just a job” until the next one, or is this where you see yourself long-term (if they’ll have you)?
Here's the crux of the matter, from my view - it’s a privilege to be in a position in life where you can pursue meaningful work. Not everyone has that option. So if you’re not pursuing what’s important to you, then why not? Your passion may not be a promotion or the next level, maybe it’s not even the career you’re in today. Maybe, you want to do your job, then spend that extra time building your own thing. Cool! Or perhaps it’s about boundaries and spending time in school, raising kids, self-care, traveling, or something else entirely. YES! Or, maybe you DO want more from where you’re at. Maybe you do want a shot at reaching the C-Level someday, if so, then doing only what’s required isn’t going to get you there. That’s the other truth here, doing the required minimum for anything you’re passionate about isn’t going to get you where you want to go.
My one desire for each of you is that you are working towards what is meaningful to you. Set your boundaries accordingly and pursue what you’re passionate about. I’ll be over here cheering you on.
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