Recently, quiet quitting has come under scrutiny, particularly among Gen Z workers in Japan. This is evident from the shift in work attitudes, where Japanese workers were once known for their hard work and dedication. So, what exactly is “quiet quitting”?
What Is Quiet Quitting?
The term quiet quitting refers to doing the bare minimum at work without going above and beyond. In other words, refusing to work beyond office hours or take on responsibilities outside one’s job description. This term gained popularity in the United States around 2022. Employees no longer expect promotions or even salary increases from their superiors as a way to build their careers.
45% of Japanese Workers Now Only Work Just Enough
Mynavi Career Research Lab, a labor research institute in Tokyo, conducted a survey of 3,000 employees aged 25–59 and found that 45% of workers admitted to quiet quitting. The survey also showed that quiet quitting is increasingly common among Gen Z in Japan, likely influenced by excessive work demands and a desire for better work-life balance. Employees in their 20s were the most likely to identify as quiet quitters.
Izumi Tsuji, a professor of cultural sociology at Chuo University in Tokyo, noted:
“There has been a major change in attitudes toward work among young people, and even among people of my generation in their 50s. In the past, workers were very loyal to their employers, working long hours, doing unpaid overtime, and not even considering switching companies.”
According to the Mynavi study, workers who practice quiet quitting are primarily motivated by the desire for more personal time. A report by The Japan Times also revealed that over 70% of Japanese workers who identify as quiet quitters plan to continue doing so, especially among Gen Z.
Many employees feel the tasks they do are already appropriate for the salary they receive. Others only do the minimum needed to survive, feeling that their efforts go unrecognized. As a result, they are uninterested in promotions or career advancement.
Reasons Why Workers Engage in Quiet Quitting
From the Mynavi survey, several main reasons were identified for why young workers in Japan are choosing to quiet quit:
1. Many employees feel their current job does not align with their personal interests or life goals.
2. Lack of appreciation from supervisors makes workers feel their contributions are undervalued, leading to reluctance in putting in extra effort.
3. Some employees prioritize a stable salary and benefits over promotions, which are often seen as burdensome.
4. Many are less focused on career development and more on maintaining work-life balance.
The Widespread Practice of Quiet Quitting
Quiet quitting, which initially gained attention in the United States in 2022, has now spread globally. It reflects a significant shift in how employees view work. This development is influenced by various factors, including increased awareness of the importance of balancing work and personal life, and burnout due to excessive workloads.
With the advancement of technology and the rise of remote work, many Gen Z employees no longer feel the need to demonstrate extra dedication to gain recognition. Instead, they choose to focus on their core responsibilities without engaging in a workplace culture that demands high levels of loyalty.
The spread of quiet quitting also signifies a generational shift, particularly among Gen Z workers, who tend to clearly separate work from personal life. They prefer to focus on their well-being and avoid the stress that comes from unbalanced job expectations. This trend has become a critical issue for companies, as it can impact both productivity and workplace culture as a whole.