Is it quiet quitting or healthy boundaries? Discover 5 key signs of the evolving work culture in Singapore and what employers can do to adapt.

In the past, “going above and beyond” was seen as a hallmark of commitment and ambition in the workplace. But in today’s work culture – especially across younger generations – there’s been a noticeable shift. Employees are pushing back on hustle culture, embracing mental wellbeing, and setting clearer boundaries between work and personal life. This has sparked a hot debate: Is this “quiet quitting,” or is it just healthy boundary-setting?

As one of Singapore’s leading recruitment and HR solution providers, The GMP Group explores the nuance behind this trend and how companies can navigate this evolving workplace dynamic with empathy and strategy.

💡 What Is Quiet Quitting?

Despite its name, quiet quitting doesn’t involve resigning. Instead, it refers to doing only what your job requires – nothing more, nothing less. No staying late. No checking emails after hours. No volunteering for unpaid responsibilities.

It’s a silent stand against burnout, overwork, and unrealistic employer expectations. While some employers view it as disengagement or lack of initiative, many employees see it as a necessary correction to toxic work culture.

✅ Quiet Quitting vs. Healthy Boundaries: What’s the Difference?

Quiet Quitting	Healthy Boundaries
A response to burnout or dissatisfaction	A proactive approach to mental wellness
Can be linked to disengagement	Supports sustained productivity and wellbeing
Often silent or passive	Communicated clearly and respectfully
May lead to underperformance	Encourages focus and work-life balance

Understanding the intention behind the action is key. Quiet quitting often stems from a deeper issue – such as lack of recognition, poor leadership, or burnout. Healthy boundaries, on the other hand, are about longevity and mutual respect in the workplace.

🔍 5 Signs the Work Culture Is Changing in Singapore

1. Employees Are Prioritising Work-Life Balance

More professionals are saying “no” to working overtime and choosing jobs that support flexible work, wellness days, or hybrid arrangements. It’s not about being lazy – it’s about sustainability.

2. Mental Health Is No Longer a Taboo Topic

Increased awareness of burnout, anxiety, and depression has empowered workers to speak up. Employers who dismiss mental wellness risk high turnover and low engagement.

3. Purpose Over Pay

Especially among Gen Z and younger millennials, there’s a growing desire to work for companies that align with their values and provide meaning beyond the paycheck.

4. Clearer Role Expectations

Today’s employees want clarity: What’s expected of them? What does success look like? When job scope is vague or ever-expanding, frustration sets in – and quiet quitting follows.

5. Burnout is Driving Behaviour

When employees are emotionally drained and overwhelmed, their coping mechanism may look like “checking out.” But often, it’s a cry for help or a need to reset.

🧠 What Employers Can Do: From Control to Collaboration

Instead of resisting the shift, forward-thinking companies are reimagining how work should work. Here’s how you can adapt:

✔️ Redefine Productivity

Shift the focus from hours clocked to outcomes achieved. Give employees the flexibility to manage their time and energy, especially in hybrid work settings.

✔️ Promote Open Communication

Create a safe space where employees can express concerns, clarify boundaries, and seek support without fear of judgment or retaliation.

✔️ Offer Support, Not Surveillance

Using software to monitor employees’ keystrokes or log-in times can erode trust. Instead, focus on fostering a culture of ownership and autonomy.

✔️ Recognise Effort and Impact

Employees are more engaged when they feel seen and valued. Small gestures – like public recognition, career progression, or a simple thank-you – go a long way.

✔️ Invest in Management Training

Many quiet quitting issues stem from ineffective leadership. Equip managers to lead with empathy, manage performance constructively, and support wellbeing.

🏢 How The GMP Group Can Help

At The GMP Group, we recognise that recruitment and retention are no longer just about finding the right skill set. They’re about understanding evolving employee mindsets and building cultures where people thrive.

Our HR solutions are designed to help organisations in Singapore:

• Attract and retain talent that aligns with your culture
• Upskill leaders to adapt to modern expectations
• Build sustainable work environments that reduce burnout and increase engagement

Whether you’re navigating talent shortages or managing hybrid teams, we’re here to help you evolve with the times.

Learn how we can support your organisation’s hiring and HR transformation goals.

Final Thoughts

What some call “quiet quitting” may actually be a healthy rebalancing of work and life. It’s a wake-up call—not just for employees, but for employers too. By understanding this shift and embracing it with empathy, leaders can build teams that are not just productive, but also resilient, loyal, and motivated.

The future of work isn’t just about doing more – it’s about doing better.