TBH, as a European, I think “quiet quitting” is a bit of a weird term for “setting boundaries”. I think not taking calls at midnight or responding to emails on Saturday is only healthy. I am available to my employer between 8-6, everything outside of that is up to my discretion.
As an Asian, worked for American listed company in Singapore, and married a Dutch (European) husband and now living in Netherlands (in Europe), I can related to all sides of this discussion. You know, my Asian friends now working in Silicon valley Tech company used to say "the Europeans are so lazy comparing to Asians and Americans because it was just so slow there. In summer, everybody is gone on holidays. " But the reality as I see it is that "actually the dutch people around me all work very hard, no lazy ass". The only difference is Americans and Asians work all their waking hours, but the Europeans "draw boundaries". And so I draw my own conclusion that on this spectrum of "hard working", the Asians and Americans are probably on the end of too hard working to the extend that human got burnt out and not sustainable. And the Europeans (depending on which country you are talking about) maybe to a small extent, can work a lit bit more.
@@emilyinnetherlands5295 your comment was an excellent comment. I've worked at a global US based company for 15 years I've worked with every region for years at a time. I'm currently working with Europeans. I believe with this channel host is talking about is the "fight or flight" mode that your body can not turn off. You become so unaware of your state you are in "fight or flight" 24 x 7. Then your management and co-workers expect you to continue delivering the same way you have. I can related and have battled a similar thing myself recently. Thru prayer and belief in Jesus He has set me free of this
@@emilyinnetherlands5295 we need more efficiency in our work, not longer working ours... I am working with Japanese, and let me tell you of how inefficient they really are, lots of unnecessary tasks created just to make the employees stay longer at office.
Exactly! I feel like the term quiet quitting is so unhelpful because what she is explaining is not 'quitting' at all. Its literally working your job without been taking advantage of by your company.
Exactly!!!! Moral of the story is when you see that your work place is toxic "like when they added traveling to her job description and didn't modify her work load" you have to run. I wouldn't call what she explained "quiet quitting" because it implies that doing your job isn't enough. In some companies that may be the case, but that should be the exception not the rule. Tip: When you get a new role stay on the market for at least 2-3 months in case you didn't pick-up on the toxicity during the interview. If you been in a toxic work envir. (like most of us) and you already know its not something you want to deal with (lets be real some people will deal with it- for yrs); because you rather be happy & not feel burnt out everyday then the only option is to leave. It sucks and you will feel like you are doing something wrong. Talk to people you can trust, who can give you that confidence to transition to another job.
If you’re a knowledge worker and your analysis, code, note writing, back-and-forth comms, etc stuff in advance of a significant change affect other people weeks or months later, it can be very hard to just do the minimum. Because people will call out “what about this?” later and it’ll be on you if that thing went wrong. To be low-effort consistently for like a year makes you the bad guy for a ton of project holes. It’s exhausting feeling like the bad guy just because you didn’t plug every faulty hole in a system or a project in advance that costs everyone even more time or actual millions of dollars. It’s not as big of a deal to do the bare minimum as restaurant waiter where the customer’s interaction lasts a maximum of 2 hours and contributes like $60 of revenue. It’s hard when doing the bare minimum translates to literally millions of dollars. On top of that, it’s awkward as hell going through weekly team project updates if you try to just be average. Average can look “bad” in my workplace because everyone else is so productive and our team is supposed to be the experts. It makes me wonder if I’m just shitty or if there is a culture of overwork. I can’t always tell. So I’d choose to try to keep up and work more because I don’t want to be fired for underperforming.
@@ampersignia I understand what your saying. All industries aren't the same. We are more referring to work balance & boundaries. Both ends of the spectrum exist, but if your job description requires you to be a high performer then your likely being paid for that type of skill & you know what it is. Either way I feel that work culture is usually either proactive, reactive or somewhat in between. When it's reactive your constantly putting out fires, things can be extremely disorganized, ppl are stretched too thin & then on top of that you still have your job to do which is usually hard to get through with since all departments are very busy. So there's a difference in working in a reactive work culture for a specific job & taking that same job to a different company & being in a proactive work environment. More people today prefer work life balance. Understanding that if there is a deliverable that needs to be met you will stay later, but the work culture doesnt make you feel that you need to answer emails 9pm because the company is proactive so it can wait until morning
"Quiet Quitting" is what Europeans just call working. Source: American currently living and working in Europe. I lol'd when i heard that term. I was this overachiever back in the SF Bay Area selling my soul for pennies. Now I've found a work culture that values personal time above all else.
Seriously, that needs to be our default culture. We need to agree en masse to stoppit with all the "going above and beyond" for corporations that are looking to automate our jobs anyway.
THIS!!! I’ve been learning Norwegian and learning more about Norwegian culture and one of the things that has stuck out to me in Norway is that it’s vital for Norwegians to have a work/life balance. It’s common for people to get off at 4pm so they have the rest of the day to spend with family and friends. I also learned you aren’t seen as a hard worker if you stay past your clock out time, you are seen as someone who doesn’t prioritize themselves or their family time. BLEW MY MIND. and Norway is merely just one example, soooo many European countries value humanity over your ability to produce a product and I haven’t been able to look at America the same ever since. We really said we have freedom and ran with it, without ever second guessing what true freedom looks like, we just took what we could get and called it a day.
All the things described here as "quiet quitting" have been my work ethic from the start of my career. I graduated into a pandemic and that definitely came with a sense of disillusionment and mental resignation going into the workforce. But I wonder how many more of us there are that will approach our jobs with a "work to live" rather than "live to work" mindset from the beginning rather than feel miserable and absolutely burnt out years into it.
We are in Seattle too. My husband did the same thing after being at Amazon for seven years. He was HUGELY burned out, quit and spent about 6 months focusing on his mental and physical health (he had over a year’s worth of rainy-day funds to cover all our bills and mortgage). When he finally decided he wanted to go back to work, it only took him two weeks, and now he’s working at a place that’s two promotions above where he was at Amazon and pays better to boot. Do what feels best to you and don’t worry about the naysayers that are not in your position. YOU know what will work!
I quit my job without a new one a few years ago and I can not express how incredibly beneficial it was for me. I was in a similar situation to yours and I needed time away from everything. Looking back there are a few huge things in my life that I absolutely love that never would have happened had I not taken the time. The one piece of advice I would give is to not be hard on yourself if you think you’re not doing enough with your time. Do exactly what you want to do in the moment and don’t stress. Be free and have fun :)
literally experienced all of this when I quit my job early 2020, woah. The resentment I got from coworkers when I said was taking my own sabbatical - snarky comments like "you're too young for that" - that was eye opening too
I’m glad you’re sharing your journey. I went through the same things and quit my job in October of last year. I was unemployed for 3 months and did the inner work in order to be able to go back to working a basic ass job. New mantra is to work to pay my bills and that’s it. I now have 4 days off every week, make enough to pay my bills, and take much better care of myself than I was a year ago. Thank you for sharing. I love your videos. Thank you for the support.
This video has really resonated with me. This week I handed in my notice and instead of feeling excited for the future and my new job, I just felt relief. I worked for one of the ‘big four’ (if you know you know) on a graduate training contract. I have spent the last two months crying everyday at work, being made to feel small and bullied by seniors and managers, concerns around my development which I raised over six months ago coming back to bite me (telling me it’s my fault), always being told to ‘take responsibility for my work’ without getting a solid answer as to what that meant, not being paid for overtime but spending 2 hours a day finishing work after hours only to be told I wasn’t doing enough. On top of that, I am having to sit exams when not in busy season meaning I had so little free time to develop and enjoy all my passions outside work, also not being able to take holiday when I wanted as I’d already been assigned to engagements. I have become a shell of the person I was before working there. I have chronic anxiety and stress as well as extremely low self esteem, I now take medication and go to counselling. When I handed in my notice, I thought people would care, turns out it has made absolutely no difference whatsoever. I’d built it up in my head as this big thing and no one cared. Moral of the story, don’t spend 22 months in a job you hate, telling yourself if I just work harder, just stick it out, push through, if I change myself maybe I’ll be accepted. Life is too short.
Your so brave Katherine. Hats off to you for taking agency and putting the next best step into your life. This was not an easy choice but you really did it!! Well done. I am in the same boat at the moment and chronically ill but also have 2 kids and wanting a home for them.. To make this move now was the best thing for you. I believe my time will come as Im quietly hoping for the universe to listen. Xxx
I've been unemployed (not by choice) for a second and I don't think I will look back on this time fondly in most ways but it did give me so much clarity that I will always be grateful for that. You are such an inspiration to me and the way I want to conduct myself professionally and personally.
Thanks for sharing your story. I am on a similar path. I also quit my job in June for a self paid sabbatical until October. I was the high performer in my team at work, but other than a pat on the back it did not pay to be a high performer. After a request for part-time over the summer was denied (as expected), I handed in my resignation. I am enjoying my summer now. Take care, you deserve to make YOU a priority.
I was unemployed from May 2020-May 2021 and even though I wasn't able to really go anywhere or spend as much time with friends as I would've liked, it was honestly a great time in my life. I was not stressed from work, I could sleep in as much as I wanted, and I could just do what I wanted when I wanted like going hiking on a nice Tuesday morning. I'm working now but have been sort of in this quiet quitting mode for a while. I have really not felt any kind of fulfillment from my work and am always thinking of something else I could do that makes me feel fulfilled. Maybe this video and your journey can help push me to do so... Thanks Katherout!
So happy for you!! There's truly no better feeling than that of taking time off after quitting a job that drained the life out of you. I didn't realize how "not myself" I had felt for so long until I finally disconnected from a toxic work environment. Wishing you lots of fresh air and PNW hikes in this new season of life!
I quit with nothing lined up in April. It has truly been the best, most compassionate decision I’ve ever made for myself. Though I haven’t traveled or done anything too extraordinary it has been a transformative 6 weeks. It’s hard to put it into words, but I’m sure you will do so beautifully in the months to come. I would re-up the advice I saw another commenter give: don’t put too much pressure on yourself with this newfound free time. There is so much rest and reprogramming going on inside - honor it. If you have a 3 day long TH-cam binge bender or don’t get around to doing yoga everyday, it’s ok! I’m so proud of you for having the audacity to trust yourself and take the leap!!
I relate so much to your story especially the part about the harassment you faced and how the job basically did nothing about it. Smh. I’m so happy you are in a better place. I hope to get away from where I work soon too.
You’re absolutely courageous! I’m feeling a little emotion listening to you open up about this because I was in exactly same situation. It felt insane to go ahead and change up my whole life and even if people said it’s not the best decision - I knew it will work for me. Just like it will work for you! The amount of strength you give us all Kath, it’s incredible. By you being vulnerable - we get to be vulnerable, and as a result of those two things - we all get to be brave.
A while ago when you said that you no longer look for fulfillment in your labor, that really stuck with me. I wondered if you were right, but I kept hoping for some kind of fulfillment in my work and eventually found some. I think that you are amazing for making a brave decision and I hope you find fulfillment this way.
Yes! Good to see you doing what’s best for you. So much of this resonates. I also work in tech sales, it grinds me down everyday. I quit last week! I have no new job to go to. It’s scary but also liberating and it just feels right. 🙌
I first stumbled across this video when I’d first obtained employment and was out off by the fact that a person wouldn’t want to work and so refused to watch it. Now, almost 2 years into my career I am here, watching this video & feeling the same emotions of wanting to quit. I now understand. I truly do.
The one and only Katherout! Proud of you for quitting the rat race my friend. Never sell your soul to a company, job that doesn't care about you at all
YESSSSSSS! I quit my corporate job 6 months ago (bc chronic illness) without going right into a new one and its been the best possible decision. I didn’t realize it was possible to love life this much and look forward to the next day until I left! It was definitely a weird change at first but so worth it. funny enough, I’ve also started embroidering. Proud of you ❤️
So happy for you!! Your videos are so validating because I have been feeling very similarly over the last few years, especially since moving to Europe. I'm finishing grad school and moving into the work force soon, and the work-life balance here is so much healthier and more sustainable than in my home country which is a relief because the rise and grind lifestyle would destroy me
Wow, this video really hit home to the point I wanted to tear up. Thank you for capturing so many of the feelings and experiences that I have felt over the past two years and putting them into words. This felt truly cathartic and I hope will inspire me to follow through with the necessary actions to put my life and health first and deprioritize work from the "center of the wheel," so to speak. Looking forward to hearing more about this journey and have complete faith that this path will lead to good. Also love the haircut!
I feel like quiet quitting is when you quite frankly just don't care anymore. You're burnt out and just doing whatever - pushing boundaries in the process. Maybe because you realize you've been "used" for your work ethic, maybe because you're just not connected to your work anymore. Really insert any reason here that makes you not care nearly as much as you once did. Work life balance is more like you still care about what you do and how you're seen at work and your role gives you the ability to create that balance without getting flack for it on the back end. You can work hard and leave satisfied and not drained of life. At least that's how I see them 🤷🏾♀️.
I dont functionally see a difference either. Ive literally never done more than what i was required to do when i worked 9 to 5s and it made no difference, i got praised for good work all the same and didnt get in trouble for not going "above and beyond." 🤷♀️
agree with what janetta said! my (uninformed) take on it is that quiet quitting is acting in away that you couldn't necessarily justify to your boss if called out on it. like even though a lot of companies may want you to work later, if you only work from exactly 9-5 then you can justify that those are the hours you were hired for. whereas like going to run errands in the middle of the day, if you were called out on that you can't really justify why you were doing something else during work hours. of course if you read stuff like david graeber's bullshit jobs you'll realize that you most likely won't be called out on it in many many jobs, but that's my theory lol
i think the difference is quiet quitting is where you're accepting of the strong possibility of losing the job eventually one way or another, the approach really is "fuck it," que sera sera, etc, etc.
I feel very seen right now, 100% relate on your work experience although I’m fortunate in that my company isn’t that much at odds with my own political and social views. You’re one of my favorite creators and I appreciate you sharing this inside look into your life!!
Thank you so much for what you do. This video, and the "I no longer aspire to have a career" video, so drastically changed my perspective on work that I honestly don't know where my mindset and life would be right now if you hadn't posted them. It's just so incredibly comforting to hear someone voicing the same thoughts that have been swimming around in my own mind and to see all these people in the comments sharing similar experiences, especially since I don't have many people in my life who can relate. After a pretty circuitous career path post-college, I ended up quitting my job in January with the knowledge that I wanted to apply to a training program that would set me up for a career I knew I would find more enjoyable/fulfilling than what I had previously been doing. It's because of people like you (and, of course, an immense amount of financial privilege) that I felt comfortable in my decision to quit without having a program acceptance or another job immediately lined up. Taking a few months off -- something I would have found incredibly daunting and anxiety-inducing a few years ago -- was absolutely wonderful. I'm starting the training program today and, for the first time in many years, truly looking forward to what's ahead in my life with excitement, no matter where my career ends up taking me.
Yessss girl! I went through the same exact thing working at a major tech company as a HR Business Partner... From the burnout, to making the decision to leave, to coming to terms with judgement from others, I ultimately had to go with my instinct and make the best decision for myself! I quit in May and am currently enjoying my break. Words can't explain the peace I finally feel and the time I have to rest, reflect, and slowly figure out what's next for me. I know not everyone has the means to do this but I agree with normalizing that it's ok to take a breather in between gigs if you can/want to. Enjoy your time off and can't wait to hear your journey!
Girl we are on the same wave and this video has been so reaffirming for me!!! So thank you. I am leaving teaching after only a year of doing it. Similar to you, I sped through my degree and graduated in 3 years to save money. I was an honors student and overachiever throughout. Then I went directly into a very high stress job with minimal life experience. I realized I needed to take a step back and figure out who I am as a person when I’m not working. What are my genuine interests? So I quit and am taking three months just working part time until I go back to a full time job I love (nannying). So far I’m mildly failing because I keep taking on more dog sitting and babysitting jobs that I’m offered which is slowly adding up to full time work, but I think it’ll get easier as the weeks go on to ditch that money-hungry mindset. Also I’m thankful my part time work isn’t nearly as stressful as teaching was. We’re in the same boat 💕✨
Okay congratulations!! Even from just a viewers perspective, it was clear just how HEAVY this job was for you. I think a break will do wonders for you, it can be so helpful to have time off after leaving a stressful & toxic worth environment. Sending you love & the best vibes!!!
I noticed that when employees are giving signs that they are about to quit; management always seems to purposely give their employees either a small- meaningless promotion, raise, or other small meaningless rewards. Just to give you a false feeling of hope and guilt that you were just thinking bad; and that if you stay a little longer everything will work out and live happily ever after. In the end, it all just becomes a big never-ending cycle. just like an abusive and toxic relationship. You must always put yourself, your mental and physical health, and, most importantly, happiness first. After all, to them, you are just a replaceable no-body. Love yourself.
Wow you are so brave and congrats for taking the plunge to show up for yourself. As you were talking at the end about being able to retire or take time off every so often finally made me understand and validate why I wanna be a teacher and could never could work 12 months a year. Thank you for sharing as it really helped me think about what I want when I enter the workforce next year.
Hi Katherout, thank you for sharing your story. :) This video really resonated with me because I went & am going through almost the identical experience. I had a corporate job for the past 6 years, burned out and wanted to leave, tried job hunting because I thought that's what I was supposed to do, but then realised it's not what I want to do, and decided to quit without the next job lined up, which of course took me ages to finally decide. I was interested in making content and filmmaking so I ended up going to summer school on documentary in London and spent 3 months traveling in Europe. The time I spent in Europe was truly the happiest I've been since I graduated from college, meeting incredible people and building truly meaningful friendships, traveling solo and feeling scared but excited, and I felt like I've accomplished and learned so much more in those 3 months than the past few years. I recently started actively looking for jobs and with the pressure to find a job and not being successful so far and being questioned why I left without the next job lined up by interviewers, I was starting to question if it was the right decision or if I made a foolish impulsive decision even though I am truly happy with taking the time off. So you made me feel less alone and encouraged me to stay positive. Thank you
It saddens me that many of the behaviours associated with 'quiet quitting' are essentially resistance to internalised and experienced objectification. I don't know if I would label this shift as 'witholding [your] labour value from [your] employers' unless that is the explicit intention, the alternative being simply recognising your multidimensionality as a human being. Rooting for us!
I love your editing it’s very unique with the internet 2.0 sound cartoon. Not sure how to call it. I think it’s normal for tech sales girlies to feel burn out, rage quitters, and travel. Very relatable. Been there
WOOOO love this. this whole idea resonates so deeply with me. ur the coolest & it’s so affirming to feel seen in this way. 100% support u in this & i feel so happy 4 u. love and light
“Quiet quitting” just sounds like how you should work normally 🤷🏾♀️ 😂 I been quiet quitting my entire life I guess @11:55 This is how you’re supposed to deal with work. Work fits into your life, not the other way around.
Gooooo girl gooooooo goo get it ! Last week I had a 3 day work week and my mental health has never been better!!!! Working 8.5 hours a day 5 days a week a recipe for depression and anxiety and I will stand but that NO MATTER what ANYONE says!! Thank u sm for speaking out about this !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I had no idea I have been quietly quitting since the start of my career 😅😂. One a serious note, it’s pretty amazing seeing you grow into the person you want to be. I have been watching you for a while and I have seen you change in the best way possible it’s truly inspiring. Thank you! I wish you the best in whatever you decide to do in the future. 💕
Thank you so much for sharing your experience here. I sobbed through almost the entire thing. It really spoke to me. I have been in the thick of quiet quitting (which I didn't even know there was a term for) and trying to convince myself to just leave and take the break I know I need, but it's been a challenge. So happy for you that you were able to take that step!
it’s funny because some parts of “quiet quitting” has in some way a lot of the way we work in europe (i’m in france), you guys in america live for your jobs. we have a job to be able to live, but our personal life is always more important. so i’m happy you’re happy now!
I also jumped into a career (marketing) straight after college out of fear and convenience. After two years of jumping from agency to agency, I realized my personal values conflicted with my line of work. So I took almost two years off and worked at a dog daycare while I saved up to go to graduate school to get my masters in social work!
Related to this more than most videos on TH-cam. I went through/am going through the same thought process of convincing yourself that there are reasons to stay at this job - existing pay, raise just given, waiting for equity to vest, benefits, team change, seasonality, etc etc all the possible reasons you would delay. And I related to wanting to be fired or laid off, or rejected from job interviews just so the universe could decide for you. Then you could have an easily-explainable reason to others for why you prioritized yourself and took time off working altogether. Like “oh yeah I was laid off… that’s totally why I didn’t have a job for 3 months. Not at all because I just deserve to not work literally every single month of being alive as an adult human on planet Earth.”
Girl, I 100% get how this is such a hard decision. Comfort will kill you even if you’re unhappy and sitting there thinking about leaving and not being so miserable anymore. I played the same game in putting it off. Then I got a promotion and a raise like you and got cold feet again (after having quiet quit). But I have now put in my two weeks just a month later. Even though I feel nervous and uncomfortable, I’m proud. And you should be proud too! As always, love hearing your story and thoughts!
This was so inspiring! I have silently quit my job for months now and I finally scheduled to meet with HR! My stomach is in knots thinking of how the conversation will go. Will I put my 2 week notice in?! I have no idea
I decided to drop out of college this year in early April after I had a month long depressive episode. Everything you said about the bare minimum and the fear of uncertainty and safety was really keeping me in a place I didn’t belong. I’m so happy to hear someone’s story that is similar to my own and I can’t wait to see what we both do during our rest period!!!!! Thank you for helping me find someone that gets what it’s like. ❤️
Same, girl, same. This has been my exact past year as well, down to the feelings and *all* the reasons you listed for why taking an unemployed sabbatical was the right choice for me. I quit my job in March, and having 100% of my time to decide what makes me feel calm and nourished, was an amazing choice. I will start looking again in the fall, but for now, having my summer to do all the things and honestly put myself first is an incredible privilege and gift. And I’m 100% in favor of front loading your retirement- neither of my parents made it to retirement age before their disability made it impossible not only to work but to do the things they were waiting to do. Enjoy your youth and live your life!
Just stumbled across your channel and I absolutely loved this video. I just quit my job in an overly taxing field after a decade and it was a scary leap, but it was so necessary and thus far, SO WORTH IT. I also did a bit of quiet quitting over the last year or so because it was so clear that it didn't matter. I relate to you so much! Enjoy your time off. I've just subscribed and I can't wait to see what you do with this self-funded sabbatical!
Thank you for being so vulnerable and sharing your thoughts with us. I'm so happy for you for putting your own happiness first! Wishing you a restful sabbatical!!
Only a few minutes into the video (and I know this is not the point of the video) but I love seeing the evolution of curly hair kath through these clips!
I can totally relate to this. Worked a couple places where I ended up doing that. I finally had to stop doing those jobs. So many years acquiring experience in jobs I never enjoyed. Just because you have experience doesn’t mean you enjoy it. I keep getting asked to do the same insurance jobs and to get paid more for them but no more. Being happy makes so much more sense.
My love and support are with you girl. It's not an uncommon ideas to prioritize your well being. Your doctors, therapist and youtube comment section are here to root for you if a little spice of external validation is needed. Also you mentioned ennagram type 3, I would really love to explore the subject of Ennagram if you bring it to your channel
I love this so much. I have been having so many conversations with myself about this - but I have dug myself a hole where I have too much debt & live paycheck to paycheck to be able to take time off of work or pay off what I need to. It is a goal of mine to work it out so that I have more freedom to do what I want to do.
cool vid...i have similar findings about quiet quitting...its at the same time depressing and freeing knowing that working the hardest i could got me literally nothing for YEARS, twice - you get a few compliments, have this "status" in the company, but they will still try to lowball you, it doesnt guarantee you anything...companies are trying to finesse, i feel like i was just losing "the game", being naive, always working up to the "next position's standard"... now im much happier - just doing my job...dont care about late mails, dont care about deadlines - not my problem... all the best to all who may read this - dont make the same mistake - play the game to win - support what you REALLY wanna do from the money you make, be smart about it, and you'll be much happier in the end...maybe even be able to quit - i sure hope ill be able to soon
Fuck yeah so happy for you Katherine! No need to defend your decision at all, life is fucking short and you deserve to pursue happiness as much as you are able to. You are obviously an incredibly intelligent and capable person who is going to do well in whatever avenue you choose.
Only just reading the title of this video right now but I'm SO proud of you Katherine. You do what so many of us can't or aren't brave enough to do. So excited for your future!
Oh wow, I didn't know there was a term for what I have been doing for every job I've had. Lol. I think doing your job is enough and it should be that way. I always try to remember " I work to live not to live to work".
I've been watching your channel on and off for years and I just wanna say that hair and brow glow up though ✨ But also congrats on doing what's best for you
Just so I don't echo the dozens of other comments saying how proud they are of you (even though I AM PROUD, GIRLIE!!), instead I'll gush about how amazing your hair looks! I'm loving watching your curly hair journey; I've been growing out my hair, so it's been getting less and less curly as it gets longer and weighed down, and your shorter cut is making me reconsider!
It’s quite ironic when, I was a kid, teenager, and in my early 20’s how many years, I dreamed of having a ‘career’ or ‘good job’ and over the past couple years, I never thought the pendulum would swing back the other way!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences ! I took a leave of absence/sabbatical this spring and it was a really restful and transformative period for me . I’m glad you’re taking time to reset and wish you all the best on your journey ✨✨
So happy for you and proud of you! It’s not an easy decision to do what’s best for yourself and what you want. Made me feel better about my own decision - I’ve just finished my undergrad and couldn’t afford a year off before my masters, and have been working part time throughout my whole degree. Exhausting. So, I took the plunge and decided to quit my part time job and make it work, and give myself a month off before starting my grad degree. I just want to sit on the floor for a bit!! Life is the most important thing and the sooner we realise that and deconstruct from the capitalist hamster wheel, the better! Good luck with your time offfff
So proud of you for doing the thing! You have to do what’s best for you, and taking time off to reevaluate sounds like a great plan. I had a job a few companies back that really took advantage of me, had my traveling so often it almost wasn’t worth having my own place, and then tried to force me out so they could re-hire someone in a cheaper state. I showed up the next day and handed in my notice. I had no plan, but I had enough saved so I took three months off to travel for FUN, think about where I saw my career heading, and ultimately found a job that was a much better fit. Whatever’s right for you is what matters. I hope you enjoy this well-deserved break!!
I am so right there. I got PTSD from Silicon Valley hustle culture. Now I can’t work a regular office job at all. And I’m trying to sell art on Etsy to help contribute to my husband sole supporting us. I tried quiet quitting but there were middle managers who weren’t having it as I had become known as someone who “gets things done” - aka corporate slave (not that that translated to any kind of promotions or pay raises) and they couldn’t let me stop being their pawn. Eventually I took 3 months off for stress and to visit my dad who was terminally ill. When I tried to extend my leave and got the letter saying they were laying me off instead I was relieved.
Very interesting video. I’m in a somewhat similar situation where I came from a working class background so I was told to study, get tech job, save for house deposit, get house, work up the ladder, retire before you die (maybe) 🤣 I’m finding that the tech job is not as fulfilling as the low income jobs I used to have. I enjoyed those, they had an immediate reward but the wage was not a living wage. The book “Bullshit jobs” helped me to contextualise why I was feeling so disconnected. I don’t have an answer myself but I relate a lot to this video.
I know this is a lot lamer than you quitting, but I'm taking a four day weekend instead of 2 day and using some PTO and it's my first time utilizing it at this job :)
We all knew it was coming 😌 I really want to take a sabbatical myself but it's not financially feasible. I'm instead mixing up quiet quitting, doing what I find valuable at my job as I want to, looking for a remote job so I can travel, and asking jobs I apply to if I can take 6 weeks off before starting. I can't get a full breakthrough so hopefully a little ease helps. Also hope you enjoy your time till October. You don't need to be productive!! If you don't wanna read 1027 books or learn a new skill or whatever, don't!!
This is an older video but your content is therapeutic and you’re just a decent person. Thanks for being so shiny and yet down-to-earth, you wonderful bitch 😊 love your chill vibes
It's so interesting to hear this take. I've been tacitly following the "antiwork" movement, but never felt I truly related to the experiences described because ostensibly, I was a high earner in a stable and prestigious profession. Like you, I was an overachiever in school and in my early years in finance, which inflated my ego in a way that was so hard to shed when, like you, I was shown the true value of my best effort was little more than my bare minimum. I also received a raise after a year of near zero effort brought on by burnout and moral dissatisfaction with my role in the financial system. It felt like a joke. I've been quiet quit for nearly 2 years now, and too, have turned down lucrative and prestigious roles at companies I know just intended to exploit my work ethic and trample on my personal aspirations. I knew it was over when during interviews, when asked "where do you see yourself in 5 years," I felt physical disgust at the prospect of framing my future around my role at a company. In 5 years, I want to be a happy person with lots of friends, strong family relationships, and time for my passions and interests, and not the slave to my employer that I had built my whole personality around. I have made conscious efforts to dedicate my time to my personal ventures and goals, but still feel shackled to the scarcity mindset that my whole world may fall apart if I don't have a respectable career. It's a crutch, and it's not true. We worked hard enough, we deserve and can afford to give ourselves a break to re-center.
@@Katherout I found your channel with your "i do not dream of labor video," which trended last summer and kicked off a lot of introspection. It's interesting to see where you were at making videos just a year ago, and how much your perspective has shifted, much like my own. I think we're the same age so while parasocial, it's still been a comfort to watch my own growth trajectory mirrored in another person. Makes me feel less crazy for sure. Anyway, thanks for the great content and will keep watching.
Have you heard of a guy named Peter Rollins? I just listened to an episode of a podcast he does with another guy, Elliot Morgan, called "The Antiwork Fiasco" and he really goes into depth about the movement and how "antiwork" is actually a terrible name because as humans we naturally like to produce things but we want to produce things that we are passionate about and enhance our communities. Corporations essentially ask us to sell our soul in exchange for a paycheck and then try to keep us convinced that we actually love being taken advantage of. It was a great podcast episode and based on your comment I think it would speak to you as well!
Wow! I've just started learning about this concept and now you are talking about quiet quitting as well. Thanks again for being so transparent with us.
quiet quitting is something that feels like a coined term for the overachiever. Most people (where I live anyway) do this all the time. Their job is simply that: a job. No more no less. They aren't searching for happiness in that career but using their job as a means to an end. What a wonderful life.
I’ve been obsessively checking my notifications for this video and I’m so glad it’s here. Love youuuuu 🤩 I hope you find what you’re looking for during this restful time in your life and I can’t wait to keep watching your videos.
I am only 9 minutes in but wow.. thank you for continuing to overshare with us. Every time I watch a video I sit back and really truly think about things in life and work etc. appreciate you for that and for being vulnerable with us
I agree with you. If this system wants me to put more effort in then they should not make housing and basic living costs so inflated. This system sucks. People need to have some dignity!
TBH, as a European, I think “quiet quitting” is a bit of a weird term for “setting boundaries”. I think not taking calls at midnight or responding to emails on Saturday is only healthy. I am available to my employer between 8-6, everything outside of that is up to my discretion.
depends on your line of work and country culture... if you are in the US making a big salary the expectations are very different
As an American I think exactly the same.
As an Asian, worked for American listed company in Singapore, and married a Dutch (European) husband and now living in Netherlands (in Europe), I can related to all sides of this discussion.
You know, my Asian friends now working in Silicon valley Tech company used to say "the Europeans are so lazy comparing to Asians and Americans because it was just so slow there. In summer, everybody is gone on holidays. "
But the reality as I see it is that "actually the dutch people around me all work very hard, no lazy ass". The only difference is Americans and Asians work all their waking hours, but the Europeans "draw boundaries".
And so I draw my own conclusion that on this spectrum of "hard working", the Asians and Americans are probably on the end of too hard working to the extend that human got burnt out and not sustainable. And the Europeans (depending on which country you are talking about) maybe to a small extent, can work a lit bit more.
@@emilyinnetherlands5295 your comment was an excellent comment. I've worked at a global US based company for 15 years I've worked with every region for years at a time. I'm currently working with Europeans. I believe with this channel host is talking about is the "fight or flight" mode that your body can not turn off. You become so unaware of your state you are in "fight or flight" 24 x 7. Then your management and co-workers expect you to continue delivering the same way you have. I can related and have battled a similar thing myself recently. Thru prayer and belief in Jesus He has set me free of this
@@emilyinnetherlands5295 we need more efficiency in our work, not longer working ours... I am working with Japanese, and let me tell you of how inefficient they really are, lots of unnecessary tasks created just to make the employees stay longer at office.
"Quiet quitting" just sounds like having a healthy relationship with work. I don't understand why everyone doesn't work this way.
Exactly! I feel like the term quiet quitting is so unhelpful because what she is explaining is not 'quitting' at all. Its literally working your job without been taking advantage of by your company.
Exactly!!!! Moral of the story is when you see that your work place is toxic "like when they added traveling to her job description and didn't modify her work load" you have to run. I wouldn't call what she explained "quiet quitting" because it implies that doing your job isn't enough. In some companies that may be the case, but that should be the exception not the rule.
Tip: When you get a new role stay on the market for at least 2-3 months in case you didn't pick-up on the toxicity during the interview. If you been in a toxic work envir. (like most of us) and you already know its not something you want to deal with (lets be real some people will deal with it- for yrs); because you rather be happy & not feel burnt out everyday then the only option is to leave. It sucks and you will feel like you are doing something wrong. Talk to people you can trust, who can give you that confidence to transition to another job.
If you’re a knowledge worker and your analysis, code, note writing, back-and-forth comms, etc stuff in advance of a significant change affect other people weeks or months later, it can be very hard to just do the minimum. Because people will call out “what about this?” later and it’ll be on you if that thing went wrong. To be low-effort consistently for like a year makes you the bad guy for a ton of project holes. It’s exhausting feeling like the bad guy just because you didn’t plug every faulty hole in a system or a project in advance that costs everyone even more time or actual millions of dollars. It’s not as big of a deal to do the bare minimum as restaurant waiter where the customer’s interaction lasts a maximum of 2 hours and contributes like $60 of revenue. It’s hard when doing the bare minimum translates to literally millions of dollars.
On top of that, it’s awkward as hell going through weekly team project updates if you try to just be average. Average can look “bad” in my workplace because everyone else is so productive and our team is supposed to be the experts. It makes me wonder if I’m just shitty or if there is a culture of overwork. I can’t always tell. So I’d choose to try to keep up and work more because I don’t want to be fired for underperforming.
@@ampersignia I understand what your saying. All industries aren't the same. We are more referring to work balance & boundaries. Both ends of the spectrum exist, but if your job description requires you to be a high performer then your likely being paid for that type of skill & you know what it is. Either way I feel that work culture is usually either proactive, reactive or somewhat in between. When it's reactive your constantly putting out fires, things can be extremely disorganized, ppl are stretched too thin & then on top of that you still have your job to do which is usually hard to get through with since all departments are very busy. So there's a difference in working in a reactive work culture for a specific job & taking that same job to a different company & being in a proactive work environment. More people today prefer work life balance. Understanding that if there is a deliverable that needs to be met you will stay later, but the work culture doesnt make you feel that you need to answer emails 9pm because the company is proactive so it can wait until morning
"Quiet Quitting" is what Europeans just call working.
Source: American currently living and working in Europe. I lol'd when i heard that term. I was this overachiever back in the SF Bay Area selling my soul for pennies. Now I've found a work culture that values personal time above all else.
neeeeed that
Seriously, that needs to be our default culture. We need to agree en masse to stoppit with all the "going above and beyond" for corporations that are looking to automate our jobs anyway.
@@Katherout Hi from Europe, just came here to say what Jenn just said :D Quiet quitting just sounds like regular work
I mean I think that depends what country in Europe you're in...
THIS!!! I’ve been learning Norwegian and learning more about Norwegian culture and one of the things that has stuck out to me in Norway is that it’s vital for Norwegians to have a work/life balance. It’s common for people to get off at 4pm so they have the rest of the day to spend with family and friends. I also learned you aren’t seen as a hard worker if you stay past your clock out time, you are seen as someone who doesn’t prioritize themselves or their family time. BLEW MY MIND. and Norway is merely just one example, soooo many European countries value humanity over your ability to produce a product and I haven’t been able to look at America the same ever since. We really said we have freedom and ran with it, without ever second guessing what true freedom looks like, we just took what we could get and called it a day.
All the things described here as "quiet quitting" have been my work ethic from the start of my career. I graduated into a pandemic and that definitely came with a sense of disillusionment and mental resignation going into the workforce. But I wonder how many more of us there are that will approach our jobs with a "work to live" rather than "live to work" mindset from the beginning rather than feel miserable and absolutely burnt out years into it.
People exist with a "live to work" mentality?
We are in Seattle too. My husband did the same thing after being at Amazon for seven years. He was HUGELY burned out, quit and spent about 6 months focusing on his mental and physical health (he had over a year’s worth of rainy-day funds to cover all our bills and mortgage). When he finally decided he wanted to go back to work, it only took him two weeks, and now he’s working at a place that’s two promotions above where he was at Amazon and pays better to boot. Do what feels best to you and don’t worry about the naysayers that are not in your position. YOU know what will work!
bless you 😩🥺
I quit my job without a new one a few years ago and I can not express how incredibly beneficial it was for me. I was in a similar situation to yours and I needed time away from everything. Looking back there are a few huge things in my life that I absolutely love that never would have happened had I not taken the time.
The one piece of advice I would give is to not be hard on yourself if you think you’re not doing enough with your time. Do exactly what you want to do in the moment and don’t stress. Be free and have fun :)
literally experienced all of this when I quit my job early 2020, woah. The resentment I got from coworkers when I said was taking my own sabbatical - snarky comments like "you're too young for that" - that was eye opening too
I’m glad you’re sharing your journey. I went through the same things and quit my job in October of last year. I was unemployed for 3 months and did the inner work in order to be able to go back to working a basic ass job. New mantra is to work to pay my bills and that’s it. I now have 4 days off every week, make enough to pay my bills, and take much better care of myself than I was a year ago.
Thank you for sharing. I love your videos. Thank you for the support.
This video has really resonated with me. This week I handed in my notice and instead of feeling excited for the future and my new job, I just felt relief.
I worked for one of the ‘big four’ (if you know you know) on a graduate training contract. I have spent the last two months crying everyday at work, being made to feel small and bullied by seniors and managers, concerns around my development which I raised over six months ago coming back to bite me (telling me it’s my fault), always being told to ‘take responsibility for my work’ without getting a solid answer as to what that meant, not being paid for overtime but spending 2 hours a day finishing work after hours only to be told I wasn’t doing enough. On top of that, I am having to sit exams when not in busy season meaning I had so little free time to develop and enjoy all my passions outside work, also not being able to take holiday when I wanted as I’d already been assigned to engagements. I have become a shell of the person I was before working there. I have chronic anxiety and stress as well as extremely low self esteem, I now take medication and go to counselling.
When I handed in my notice, I thought people would care, turns out it has made absolutely no difference whatsoever. I’d built it up in my head as this big thing and no one cared. Moral of the story, don’t spend 22 months in a job you hate, telling yourself if I just work harder, just stick it out, push through, if I change myself maybe I’ll be accepted. Life is too short.
the relief is CRAZY
I’ve been watching you for yearsss and I’m so glad you’re staying true to yourself on this
❤❤❤ thank you kelsey
I’ve been waiting for this video‼️‼️‼️so proud that you took the bold move to quit and do what you want to do.
THANK YOU 😭😭😭
Your so brave Katherine. Hats off to you for taking agency and putting the next best step into your life. This was not an easy choice but you really did it!! Well done. I am in the same boat at the moment and chronically ill but also have 2 kids and wanting a home for them.. To make this move now was the best thing for you. I believe my time will come as Im quietly hoping for the universe to listen. Xxx
I've been unemployed (not by choice) for a second and I don't think I will look back on this time fondly in most ways but it did give me so much clarity that I will always be grateful for that. You are such an inspiration to me and the way I want to conduct myself professionally and personally.
Hell yeah Kath 👏 I'm 3 months in to a self-funded break from work and it's brought so much clarity. Wishing the same for you!
YEEHAW my fellow unemployed person
Thanks for sharing your story. I am on a similar path. I also quit my job in June for a self paid sabbatical until October. I was the high performer in my team at work, but other than a pat on the back it did not pay to be a high performer. After a request for part-time over the summer was denied (as expected), I handed in my resignation. I am enjoying my summer now. Take care, you deserve to make YOU a priority.
Kath, thank you so much for the shoutout and sharing a clip of my video! You rock! Stay abundant.
your video was so helpful for me, Timothy! Keep on creating xx
I was unemployed from May 2020-May 2021 and even though I wasn't able to really go anywhere or spend as much time with friends as I would've liked, it was honestly a great time in my life. I was not stressed from work, I could sleep in as much as I wanted, and I could just do what I wanted when I wanted like going hiking on a nice Tuesday morning. I'm working now but have been sort of in this quiet quitting mode for a while. I have really not felt any kind of fulfillment from my work and am always thinking of something else I could do that makes me feel fulfilled. Maybe this video and your journey can help push me to do so... Thanks Katherout!
So happy for you!! There's truly no better feeling than that of taking time off after quitting a job that drained the life out of you. I didn't realize how "not myself" I had felt for so long until I finally disconnected from a toxic work environment. Wishing you lots of fresh air and PNW hikes in this new season of life!
I quit with nothing lined up in April. It has truly been the best, most compassionate decision I’ve ever made for myself. Though I haven’t traveled or done anything too extraordinary it has been a transformative 6 weeks. It’s hard to put it into words, but I’m sure you will do so beautifully in the months to come.
I would re-up the advice I saw another commenter give: don’t put too much pressure on yourself with this newfound free time. There is so much rest and reprogramming going on inside - honor it. If you have a 3 day long TH-cam binge bender or don’t get around to doing yoga everyday, it’s ok!
I’m so proud of you for having the audacity to trust yourself and take the leap!!
I relate so much to your story especially the part about the harassment you faced and how the job basically did nothing about it. Smh. I’m so happy you are in a better place. I hope to get away from where I work soon too.
You’re absolutely courageous! I’m feeling a little emotion listening to you open up about this because I was in exactly same situation. It felt insane to go ahead and change up my whole life and even if people said it’s not the best decision - I knew it will work for me. Just like it will work for you! The amount of strength you give us all Kath, it’s incredible. By you being vulnerable - we get to be vulnerable, and as a result of those two things - we all get to be brave.
A while ago when you said that you no longer look for fulfillment in your labor, that really stuck with me. I wondered if you were right, but I kept hoping for some kind of fulfillment in my work and eventually found some. I think that you are amazing for making a brave decision and I hope you find fulfillment this way.
loved this!
Yes! Good to see you doing what’s best for you. So much of this resonates. I also work in tech sales, it grinds me down everyday. I quit last week! I have no new job to go to. It’s scary but also liberating and it just feels right. 🙌
YAHOOOOO CONGRATS
Okay this inspired me to make a video response to this. I honestly think it’s detrimental to call this “quiet quitting” for a number of reasons
I first stumbled across this video when I’d first obtained employment and was out off by the fact that a person wouldn’t want to work and so refused to watch it. Now, almost 2 years into my career I am here, watching this video & feeling the same emotions of wanting to quit. I now understand. I truly do.
The one and only Katherout! Proud of you for quitting the rat race my friend. Never sell your soul to a company, job that doesn't care about you at all
❤️❤️❤️❤️
YESSSSSSS! I quit my corporate job 6 months ago (bc chronic illness) without going right into a new one and its been the best possible decision. I didn’t realize it was possible to love life this much and look forward to the next day until I left! It was definitely a weird change at first but so worth it. funny enough, I’ve also started embroidering. Proud of you ❤️
So happy for you!! Your videos are so validating because I have been feeling very similarly over the last few years, especially since moving to Europe. I'm finishing grad school and moving into the work force soon, and the work-life balance here is so much healthier and more sustainable than in my home country which is a relief because the rise and grind lifestyle would destroy me
!!!! where in europe?? i am always wanting to experience another cultural relationship to labor
@@Katherout the Netherlands, where most people take August off and set up an auto-reply email and nobody ever calls you on the weekend 😇
Wow, this video really hit home to the point I wanted to tear up. Thank you for capturing so many of the feelings and experiences that I have felt over the past two years and putting them into words. This felt truly cathartic and I hope will inspire me to follow through with the necessary actions to put my life and health first and deprioritize work from the "center of the wheel," so to speak. Looking forward to hearing more about this journey and have complete faith that this path will lead to good. Also love the haircut!
get it out of the center!!!
Real question: what is the difference between quiet quitting and good work life boundaries/balance?
I feel like quiet quitting is when you quite frankly just don't care anymore. You're burnt out and just doing whatever - pushing boundaries in the process. Maybe because you realize you've been "used" for your work ethic, maybe because you're just not connected to your work anymore. Really insert any reason here that makes you not care nearly as much as you once did. Work life balance is more like you still care about what you do and how you're seen at work and your role gives you the ability to create that balance without getting flack for it on the back end. You can work hard and leave satisfied and not drained of life. At least that's how I see them 🤷🏾♀️.
I dont functionally see a difference either. Ive literally never done more than what i was required to do when i worked 9 to 5s and it made no difference, i got praised for good work all the same and didnt get in trouble for not going "above and beyond." 🤷♀️
agree with what janetta said! my (uninformed) take on it is that quiet quitting is acting in away that you couldn't necessarily justify to your boss if called out on it. like even though a lot of companies may want you to work later, if you only work from exactly 9-5 then you can justify that those are the hours you were hired for. whereas like going to run errands in the middle of the day, if you were called out on that you can't really justify why you were doing something else during work hours. of course if you read stuff like david graeber's bullshit jobs you'll realize that you most likely won't be called out on it in many many jobs, but that's my theory lol
i think the difference is quiet quitting is where you're accepting of the strong possibility of losing the job eventually one way or another, the approach really is "fuck it," que sera sera, etc, etc.
I feel very seen right now, 100% relate on your work experience although I’m fortunate in that my company isn’t that much at odds with my own political and social views. You’re one of my favorite creators and I appreciate you sharing this inside look into your life!!
ugh thank u so much for watching/commenting!!!
Thank you so much for what you do. This video, and the "I no longer aspire to have a career" video, so drastically changed my perspective on work that I honestly don't know where my mindset and life would be right now if you hadn't posted them. It's just so incredibly comforting to hear someone voicing the same thoughts that have been swimming around in my own mind and to see all these people in the comments sharing similar experiences, especially since I don't have many people in my life who can relate.
After a pretty circuitous career path post-college, I ended up quitting my job in January with the knowledge that I wanted to apply to a training program that would set me up for a career I knew I would find more enjoyable/fulfilling than what I had previously been doing. It's because of people like you (and, of course, an immense amount of financial privilege) that I felt comfortable in my decision to quit without having a program acceptance or another job immediately lined up. Taking a few months off -- something I would have found incredibly daunting and anxiety-inducing a few years ago -- was absolutely wonderful. I'm starting the training program today and, for the first time in many years, truly looking forward to what's ahead in my life with excitement, no matter where my career ends up taking me.
Yessss girl! I went through the same exact thing working at a major tech company as a HR Business Partner... From the burnout, to making the decision to leave, to coming to terms with judgement from others, I ultimately had to go with my instinct and make the best decision for myself! I quit in May and am currently enjoying my break. Words can't explain the peace I finally feel and the time I have to rest, reflect, and slowly figure out what's next for me. I know not everyone has the means to do this but I agree with normalizing that it's ok to take a breather in between gigs if you can/want to. Enjoy your time off and can't wait to hear your journey!
Girl we are on the same wave and this video has been so reaffirming for me!!! So thank you. I am leaving teaching after only a year of doing it. Similar to you, I sped through my degree and graduated in 3 years to save money. I was an honors student and overachiever throughout. Then I went directly into a very high stress job with minimal life experience. I realized I needed to take a step back and figure out who I am as a person when I’m not working. What are my genuine interests? So I quit and am taking three months just working part time until I go back to a full time job I love (nannying). So far I’m mildly failing because I keep taking on more dog sitting and babysitting jobs that I’m offered which is slowly adding up to full time work, but I think it’ll get easier as the weeks go on to ditch that money-hungry mindset. Also I’m thankful my part time work isn’t nearly as stressful as teaching was. We’re in the same boat 💕✨
ah yes the money-hungry mindset... how do we find the balance of earning what we need but not falling prey to always maximizing profits...
Okay congratulations!! Even from just a viewers perspective, it was clear just how HEAVY this job was for you. I think a break will do wonders for you, it can be so helpful to have time off after leaving a stressful & toxic worth environment. Sending you love & the best vibes!!!
heavy is RIGHT. i'm so much lighter now ☺☺
I noticed that when employees are giving signs that they are about to quit; management always seems to purposely give their employees either a small- meaningless promotion, raise, or other small meaningless rewards. Just to give you a false feeling of hope and guilt that you were just thinking bad; and that if you stay a little longer everything will work out and live happily ever after. In the end, it all just becomes a big never-ending cycle. just like an abusive and toxic relationship.
You must always put yourself, your mental and physical health, and, most importantly, happiness first. After all, to them, you are just a replaceable no-body.
Love yourself.
Wow you are so brave and congrats for taking the plunge to show up for yourself. As you were talking at the end about being able to retire or take time off every so often finally made me understand and validate why I wanna be a teacher and could never could work 12 months a year. Thank you for sharing as it really helped me think about what I want when I enter the workforce next year.
Hi Katherout, thank you for sharing your story. :) This video really resonated with me because I went & am going through almost the identical experience.
I had a corporate job for the past 6 years, burned out and wanted to leave, tried job hunting because I thought that's what I was supposed to do, but then realised it's not what I want to do, and decided to quit without the next job lined up, which of course took me ages to finally decide.
I was interested in making content and filmmaking so I ended up going to summer school on documentary in London and spent 3 months traveling in Europe. The time I spent in Europe was truly the happiest I've been since I graduated from college, meeting incredible people and building truly meaningful friendships, traveling solo and feeling scared but excited, and I felt like I've accomplished and learned so much more in those 3 months than the past few years.
I recently started actively looking for jobs and with the pressure to find a job and not being successful so far and being questioned why I left without the next job lined up by interviewers, I was starting to question if it was the right decision or if I made a foolish impulsive decision even though I am truly happy with taking the time off. So you made me feel less alone and encouraged me to stay positive. Thank you
It saddens me that many of the behaviours associated with 'quiet quitting' are essentially resistance to internalised and experienced objectification. I don't know if I would label this shift as 'witholding [your] labour value from [your] employers' unless that is the explicit intention, the alternative being simply recognising your multidimensionality as a human being. Rooting for us!
I love your editing it’s very unique with the internet 2.0 sound cartoon. Not sure how to call it. I think it’s normal for tech sales girlies to feel burn out, rage quitters, and travel. Very relatable. Been there
True happiness comes when you spend your time how you want to spend it. Live free! Best wishes
WOOOO love this. this whole idea resonates so deeply with me. ur the coolest & it’s so affirming to feel seen in this way. 100% support u in this & i feel so happy 4 u. love and light
“Quiet quitting” just sounds like how you should work normally 🤷🏾♀️ 😂 I been quiet quitting my entire life I guess @11:55 This is how you’re supposed to deal with work. Work fits into your life, not the other way around.
Gooooo girl gooooooo goo get it ! Last week I had a 3 day work week and my mental health has never been better!!!! Working 8.5 hours a day 5 days a week a recipe for depression and anxiety and I will stand but that NO MATTER what ANYONE says!! Thank u sm for speaking out about this !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I had no idea I have been quietly quitting since the start of my career 😅😂. One a serious note, it’s pretty amazing seeing you grow into the person you want to be. I have been watching you for a while and I have seen you change in the best way possible it’s truly inspiring. Thank you! I wish you the best in whatever you decide to do in the future. 💕
Me too. I’m like oops. I always run errands during the day and take longer breaks but so does my whole time. Life > work 😃
Me too lmao i love running errands after lunch bc it helps w the food coma plus it breaks your day better
Trqqqq
16:10 designed to give you just enuf to never quit or be happy. -JC
Thank you so much for sharing your experience here. I sobbed through almost the entire thing. It really spoke to me. I have been in the thick of quiet quitting (which I didn't even know there was a term for) and trying to convince myself to just leave and take the break I know I need, but it's been a challenge. So happy for you that you were able to take that step!
❤️❤️❤️❤️
You have that post "I feel freer out of this situation" radience.
EXACTLY!!!
it’s funny because some parts of “quiet quitting” has in some way a lot of the way we work in europe (i’m in france), you guys in america live for your jobs. we have a job to be able to live, but our personal life is always more important. so i’m happy you’re happy now!
I totally agree!😊 I used to live in Germany and I gotta say the work life balance in Europe is really good.
I give 3% at work I have to reminds myself to work before I get fired 😅
I also jumped into a career (marketing) straight after college out of fear and convenience. After two years of jumping from agency to agency, I realized my personal values conflicted with my line of work. So I took almost two years off and worked at a dog daycare while I saved up to go to graduate school to get my masters in social work!
Related to this more than most videos on TH-cam. I went through/am going through the same thought process of convincing yourself that there are reasons to stay at this job - existing pay, raise just given, waiting for equity to vest, benefits, team change, seasonality, etc etc all the possible reasons you would delay.
And I related to wanting to be fired or laid off, or rejected from job interviews just so the universe could decide for you. Then you could have an easily-explainable reason to others for why you prioritized yourself and took time off working altogether. Like “oh yeah I was laid off… that’s totally why I didn’t have a job for 3 months. Not at all because I just deserve to not work literally every single month of being alive as an adult human on planet Earth.”
Proud of you Katherine! Follow what aligns with your soul more. You put the work in and deserve some time for you. Cheers!
Girl, I 100% get how this is such a hard decision. Comfort will kill you even if you’re unhappy and sitting there thinking about leaving and not being so miserable anymore. I played the same game in putting it off. Then I got a promotion and a raise like you and got cold feet again (after having quiet quit). But I have now put in my two weeks just a month later. Even though I feel nervous and uncomfortable, I’m proud. And you should be proud too! As always, love hearing your story and thoughts!
proud of you too!!!!
This was so inspiring! I have silently quit my job for months now and I finally scheduled to meet with HR! My stomach is in knots thinking of how the conversation will go. Will I put my 2 week notice in?! I have no idea
You got this!
YES YOU GOT THIS
I decided to drop out of college this year in early April after I had a month long depressive episode. Everything you said about the bare minimum and the fear of uncertainty and safety was really keeping me in a place I didn’t belong. I’m so happy to hear someone’s story that is similar to my own and I can’t wait to see what we both do during our rest period!!!!! Thank you for helping me find someone that gets what it’s like. ❤️
Same, girl, same. This has been my exact past year as well, down to the feelings and *all* the reasons you listed for why taking an unemployed sabbatical was the right choice for me. I quit my job in March, and having 100% of my time to decide what makes me feel calm and nourished, was an amazing choice. I will start looking again in the fall, but for now, having my summer to do all the things and honestly put myself first is an incredible privilege and gift. And I’m 100% in favor of front loading your retirement- neither of my parents made it to retirement age before their disability made it impossible not only to work but to do the things they were waiting to do. Enjoy your youth and live your life!
Just stumbled across your channel and I absolutely loved this video. I just quit my job in an overly taxing field after a decade and it was a scary leap, but it was so necessary and thus far, SO WORTH IT. I also did a bit of quiet quitting over the last year or so because it was so clear that it didn't matter. I relate to you so much! Enjoy your time off. I've just subscribed and I can't wait to see what you do with this self-funded sabbatical!
Thank you for being so vulnerable and sharing your thoughts with us. I'm so happy for you for putting your own happiness first! Wishing you a restful sabbatical!!
thank you sm elaika!!!!!!
Only a few minutes into the video (and I know this is not the point of the video) but I love seeing the evolution of curly hair kath through these clips!
OMG haha i can't help but track those changes too. i've come so far in MANY ways in 2 years
I can totally relate to this. Worked a couple places where I ended up doing that. I finally had to stop doing those jobs. So many years acquiring experience in jobs I never enjoyed. Just because you have experience doesn’t mean you enjoy it. I keep getting asked to do the same insurance jobs and to get paid more for them but no more. Being happy makes so much more sense.
My love and support are with you girl. It's not an uncommon ideas to prioritize your well being. Your doctors, therapist and youtube comment section are here to root for you if a little spice of external validation is needed.
Also you mentioned ennagram type 3, I would really love to explore the subject of Ennagram if you bring it to your channel
maybe i'll talk more about enneagrams on tiktok or something! not sure i'd have enough to fill a whole video
So proud of you!
I love this so much.
I have been having so many conversations with myself about this - but I have dug myself a hole where I have too much debt & live paycheck to paycheck to be able to take time off of work or pay off what I need to. It is a goal of mine to work it out so that I have more freedom to do what I want to do.
such a great goal!!!
cool vid...i have similar findings about quiet quitting...its at the same time depressing and freeing knowing that working the hardest i could got me literally nothing for YEARS, twice - you get a few compliments, have this "status" in the company, but they will still try to lowball you, it doesnt guarantee you anything...companies are trying to finesse, i feel like i was just losing "the game", being naive, always working up to the "next position's standard"...
now im much happier - just doing my job...dont care about late mails, dont care about deadlines - not my problem...
all the best to all who may read this - dont make the same mistake - play the game to win - support what you REALLY wanna do from the money you make, be smart about it, and you'll be much happier in the end...maybe even be able to quit - i sure hope ill be able to soon
Fuck yeah so happy for you Katherine! No need to defend your decision at all, life is fucking short and you deserve to pursue happiness as much as you are able to. You are obviously an incredibly intelligent and capable person who is going to do well in whatever avenue you choose.
Only just reading the title of this video right now but I'm SO proud of you Katherine. You do what so many of us can't or aren't brave enough to do. So excited for your future!
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ thank you so much
the topics you touch on in this video aren't talked about enough, in my opinion. thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences with us ♥
Oh wow, I didn't know there was a term for what I have been doing for every job I've had. Lol. I think doing your job is enough and it should be that way. I always try to remember " I work to live not to live to work".
'The algorithm has used my channel as a conduit to connect all of these burnt out, left-leaning over achievers'
👁👄👁
I've been watching your channel on and off for years and I just wanna say that hair and brow glow up though ✨ But also congrats on doing what's best for you
L M A O it was honestly hard watching some of the old footage
Just so I don't echo the dozens of other comments saying how proud they are of you (even though I AM PROUD, GIRLIE!!), instead I'll gush about how amazing your hair looks! I'm loving watching your curly hair journey; I've been growing out my hair, so it's been getting less and less curly as it gets longer and weighed down, and your shorter cut is making me reconsider!
omg thank you! with my newfound free time i'm finally filming my routine so that'll be up on tiktok soooon :)))
It’s quite ironic when, I was a kid, teenager, and in my early 20’s how many years, I dreamed of having a ‘career’ or ‘good job’ and over the past couple years, I never thought the pendulum would swing back the other way!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences ! I took a leave of absence/sabbatical this spring and it was a really restful and transformative period for me . I’m glad you’re taking time to reset and wish you all the best on your journey ✨✨
thank you catherine 😌😌
congrats, Katherine! it’s so inspiring to see you make the right decision for you.
Loving this personal growth and authenticity. Good for you!
❤❤
So happy for you and proud of you! It’s not an easy decision to do what’s best for yourself and what you want. Made me feel better about my own decision - I’ve just finished my undergrad and couldn’t afford a year off before my masters, and have been working part time throughout my whole degree. Exhausting. So, I took the plunge and decided to quit my part time job and make it work, and give myself a month off before starting my grad degree. I just want to sit on the floor for a bit!! Life is the most important thing and the sooner we realise that and deconstruct from the capitalist hamster wheel, the better! Good luck with your time offfff
SIT ON THE FLOOR!!!!
Everything about this video is ittttt!!! I cannot express how much I appreciate you making this because a sis is going through it now.
so many of us are 😭
So proud of you for doing the thing! You have to do what’s best for you, and taking time off to reevaluate sounds like a great plan. I had a job a few companies back that really took advantage of me, had my traveling so often it almost wasn’t worth having my own place, and then tried to force me out so they could re-hire someone in a cheaper state. I showed up the next day and handed in my notice. I had no plan, but I had enough saved so I took three months off to travel for FUN, think about where I saw my career heading, and ultimately found a job that was a much better fit. Whatever’s right for you is what matters. I hope you enjoy this well-deserved break!!
New subbie. You had me at 'burnt out, left-leaning over achiever'.
I am so right there. I got PTSD from Silicon Valley hustle culture. Now I can’t work a regular office job at all. And I’m trying to sell art on Etsy to help contribute to my husband sole supporting us.
I tried quiet quitting but there were middle managers who weren’t having it as I had become known as someone who “gets things done” - aka corporate slave (not that that translated to any kind of promotions or pay raises) and they couldn’t let me stop being their pawn. Eventually I took 3 months off for stress and to visit my dad who was terminally ill. When I tried to extend my leave and got the letter saying they were laying me off instead I was relieved.
Very interesting video. I’m in a somewhat similar situation where I came from a working class background so I was told to study, get tech job, save for house deposit, get house, work up the ladder, retire before you die (maybe) 🤣 I’m finding that the tech job is not as fulfilling as the low income jobs I used to have. I enjoyed those, they had an immediate reward but the wage was not a living wage. The book “Bullshit jobs” helped me to contextualise why I was feeling so disconnected. I don’t have an answer myself but I relate a lot to this video.
we love david graeber!
I know this is a lot lamer than you quitting, but I'm taking a four day weekend instead of 2 day and using some PTO and it's my first time utilizing it at this job :)
i didn't realize this was a thing... I also quiet quit my job (without knowing it)
We all knew it was coming 😌
I really want to take a sabbatical myself but it's not financially feasible. I'm instead mixing up quiet quitting, doing what I find valuable at my job as I want to, looking for a remote job so I can travel, and asking jobs I apply to if I can take 6 weeks off before starting. I can't get a full breakthrough so hopefully a little ease helps.
Also hope you enjoy your time till October. You don't need to be productive!! If you don't wanna read 1027 books or learn a new skill or whatever, don't!!
i was the only one in the dark on this one lolol
I agree! Take time to just relax and don’t hold yourself to any standards of productivity 😀
This is an older video but your content is therapeutic and you’re just a decent person. Thanks for being so shiny and yet down-to-earth, you wonderful bitch 😊 love your chill vibes
Omg your hair looks amazing like this
12:20 emails are a nightmare. -JC
It's so interesting to hear this take. I've been tacitly following the "antiwork" movement, but never felt I truly related to the experiences described because ostensibly, I was a high earner in a stable and prestigious profession. Like you, I was an overachiever in school and in my early years in finance, which inflated my ego in a way that was so hard to shed when, like you, I was shown the true value of my best effort was little more than my bare minimum. I also received a raise after a year of near zero effort brought on by burnout and moral dissatisfaction with my role in the financial system. It felt like a joke.
I've been quiet quit for nearly 2 years now, and too, have turned down lucrative and prestigious roles at companies I know just intended to exploit my work ethic and trample on my personal aspirations. I knew it was over when during interviews, when asked "where do you see yourself in 5 years," I felt physical disgust at the prospect of framing my future around my role at a company. In 5 years, I want to be a happy person with lots of friends, strong family relationships, and time for my passions and interests, and not the slave to my employer that I had built my whole personality around. I have made conscious efforts to dedicate my time to my personal ventures and goals, but still feel shackled to the scarcity mindset that my whole world may fall apart if I don't have a respectable career. It's a crutch, and it's not true. We worked hard enough, we deserve and can afford to give ourselves a break to re-center.
relate to this so much xx
@@Katherout I found your channel with your "i do not dream of labor video," which trended last summer and kicked off a lot of introspection. It's interesting to see where you were at making videos just a year ago, and how much your perspective has shifted, much like my own. I think we're the same age so while parasocial, it's still been a comfort to watch my own growth trajectory mirrored in another person. Makes me feel less crazy for sure. Anyway, thanks for the great content and will keep watching.
Have you heard of a guy named Peter Rollins? I just listened to an episode of a podcast he does with another guy, Elliot Morgan, called "The Antiwork Fiasco" and he really goes into depth about the movement and how "antiwork" is actually a terrible name because as humans we naturally like to produce things but we want to produce things that we are passionate about and enhance our communities. Corporations essentially ask us to sell our soul in exchange for a paycheck and then try to keep us convinced that we actually love being taken advantage of. It was a great podcast episode and based on your comment I think it would speak to you as well!
You are truly an inspiration to me❤
Wow. That was truly inspiring. This is the healing we all need. Thank you for sharing your journey.
thank you for watching xx
Very relatable video!
Wow! I've just started learning about this concept and now you are talking about quiet quitting as well. Thanks again for being so transparent with us.
always xx
quiet quitting is something that feels like a coined term for the overachiever. Most people (where I live anyway) do this all the time. Their job is simply that: a job. No more no less. They aren't searching for happiness in that career but using their job as a means to an end. What a wonderful life.
Been following you for many years and I just wanted to say that you are really inspiring. I hope you enjoy your time off. Much love
thank you :)
I’ve been obsessively checking my notifications for this video and I’m so glad it’s here. Love youuuuu 🤩 I hope you find what you’re looking for during this restful time in your life and I can’t wait to keep watching your videos.
hehehe finally got it up!
I am only 9 minutes in but wow.. thank you for continuing to overshare with us. Every time I watch a video I sit back and really truly think about things in life and work etc. appreciate you for that and for being vulnerable with us
❤❤
I agree with you. If this system wants me to put more effort in then they should not make housing and basic living costs so inflated. This system sucks. People need to have some dignity!
I quit my job! Im 24 missing out on soooo much in life hair falling out and face breaking out even effecting my body physically I quit today 😊
so happy for you!
When you said being scared of what I other people would think is a horrible way to lead your life, that resonated with me so much 😭