Quiet Quitting: Understanding and Addressing the Phenomenon

Introduction

• Quiet quitting: Doing the bare minimum at work instead of actually quitting.
• Symptoms at work: not speaking up, skipping non-mandatory events, not taking new projects.
• Extending the concept to life: feeling unfulfilled, lacking purpose or direction.

Historical Perspective

• Pre-radio and TV: Limited exposure to others' lives, more local/community focus.
• 1920-1950: Radio and TV growth, greater exposure to others' lifestyles, and successful life portrayals by advertisers.
• Post-WWII: Increase in disposable income, rise of hyper-commercialism.
• Modern times: Social media makes comparison easier and more widespread.

Impact of Comparison

• Social media effects: constant comparison leads to feeling insufficient or discontented.
• Theodore Roosevelt: "Comparison is the thief of joy."
• Marketers exploit this by creating feelings of need to drive purchases.
• Chasing happiness through purchases often leads to more unhappiness.

Exercise: Life Pie

• Purpose: Assessing fulfillment in different life areas.
• Steps: Draw a circle, divide into six sections (spirituality, exercise, play, work, friends, romance/adventure).
• Rate fulfillment in each area and connect the dots to visualize balance.
• Goal: Move from a "tarantula" to a "mandala" (balanced life) over time.

Defining Success

• Reflection: Define personal success, not based on material items.
• Connection to Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs:
  • Physiological needs: basics like food, water, shelter.
  • Safety needs: health, security.
  • Love and belonging: connection, intimacy.
  • Esteem needs: accomplishments, self-esteem.
  • Self-actualization: achieving full potential.

Addressing Quiet Quitting in Life

• Regular check-ins: Use the life pie exercise every two months.
• Incremental improvements: Small, regular changes lead to big results.
  • Examples: weekly walks, reading a book, nurturing a plant.
• Non-negotiables: Identify and prioritize essential activities for fulfillment.
  • Examples: time with friends, regular exercise, journaling.

Conclusion

• Aim for regular self-assessment and adjustment to maintain life balance.
• Small, consistent efforts can lead to significant improvements in overall well-being.
• Accountability: revisit topic periodically for self-checks.