I’m Quitting!
How many times have you thought, after a grueling and frustrating day at work, “that’s it, I’m quitting!“?
If you feel frustrated, unmotivated, and crushed by the work routine, you’re not alone. In recent years, many people have decided to quit everything and change their lives. This is a growing trend known as Quite Working.
What is Quite Working?
It’s not just about quitting your job outright, but rather a refusal of alienating and exploitative work. “Quite Workers” no longer want to be cogs in a machine. They seek work that gives their lives meaning and makes them feel fulfilled and happy.
This is especially true in large companies that initially appeal to recent graduates but then turn out to be “meat grinders” where work-life balance is a mirage.
The phenomenon of Quite Working is on the rise worldwide, but Italy seems to be one of the most affected countries.
Here are some interesting statistics:
Italy:
- A 2023 survey found that 23% of Italian workers admitted to having considered leaving their job to do something else.
- 15% of Italian workers said they had already experienced Quite Working, reducing their work commitment while keeping their job.
- Women and young people are more likely to Quite Working.
Comparison with other countries:
- United States: According to a Pew Research Center survey, 60% of American workers said they are “very” or “somewhat” stressed at work.
- United Kingdom: A CIPD survey found that 38% of British workers admitted to being at risk of burnout.
- Germany: A Statista survey found that 72% of German workers are satisfied with their work-life balance.
How to interpret these statistics:
Italy is in a worrying position, with a high level of work stress and a growing disaffection for traditional work.
Companies are trembling in the face of this “brain drain.” But is it really a problem? Perhaps it is an opportunity to change things, to create a more humane and sustainable world of work.
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash
What can companies do to avoid Quite Working?
- Listen to their employees. Understand their needs, frustrations, and aspirations.
- Invest in employee well-being. Create a positive, flexible, and stimulating work environment.
- Value people. Recognize talent and reward results.
- Offer opportunities for growth and development.
It’s not utopia! There are already companies that have made a difference by creating a work environment where people feel happy and motivated. And the results are clear: increased productivity, creativity, and innovation.
Working in a healthy environment, made up of people and not numbers, where you have the opportunity to express your personal preferences and inclinations, is what makes the difference!
Together, we can create work that is not just a sacrifice, but a true passion.
Author: Claudia Paniconi | DMBI Marketing Manager
Photo by Nick Fewings | DMBI Data Scientist