Silent Quitting vs. Loud Quitting – What’s the Best Career Move?

In recent years, workplace culture has seen a shift that many didn’t expect—and it all boils down to one phrase: quitting. Not in the way you might imagine, though. While “quitting” used to mean packing up your desk, handing over your keys, and saying a dramatic farewell, there are now two distinct ways people are leaving their jobs: Silent Quitting and Loud Quitting. But which one is the best career move for you? Let’s break down these two approaches, what they really mean, and which one might be the right choice for you.

What is Silent Quitting?

You’ve probably heard of it by now, but let’s clear the air. Silent Quitting doesn’t actually involve handing in your resignation or disappearing into the sunset. It’s more of a mindset shift—essentially, it means doing the bare minimum required to keep your job, without going above and beyond. No more staying late, no more taking on extra projects, no more feeling guilty for not going the extra mile.

Think of it as setting a boundary with your employer: this is the job description, and this is all I’m doing. Silent Quitting is about prioritizing your personal life and mental health over work demands, and it’s grown in popularity, particularly in response to burnout and toxic work cultures.

Pros of Silent Quitting:

Work-life balance: You’re not over-committing, which can lead to more personal time.
Mental health preservation: You’re putting yourself first and protecting your well-being from workplace stress.
Avoid burnout: No longer overworking means you’re not heading toward burnout.

Cons of Silent Quitting:

Perception issues: Your boss and colleagues might notice and view you as disengaged, which could impact future opportunities.
Lack of growth: Without extra effort, you might miss out on promotions or career advancements.
Potential resentment: You may feel stuck in your role, and if the job no longer challenges you, it could start to feel like a dead-end.

What is Loud Quitting?

On the other hand, Loud Quitting is a whole different beast. When someone goes for Loud Quitting, they’re typically making an exit with a big bang. They don’t leave quietly; they leave with a statement—often an emotional one. Think: putting your two weeks’ notice in, having a dramatic exit interview, and telling your boss exactly why you’re done. It’s the opposite of Silent Quitting; instead of silently disengaging, you’re making sure everyone knows that you’re out and you have your reasons.

It’s about making a statement and taking back your power from a workplace that may have treated you poorly. Some people who Loud Quit are reclaiming their careers from burnout, while others might be leaving toxic environments for something better.

Pros of Loud Quitting:

Empowerment: You’re actively taking control of your career and sending a clear message to your employer about what you stand for.
Relief: No more pretending or being stuck. It’s a fresh start without the weight of dissatisfaction.
Clarification of values: Loud quitting allows you to define what’s not working for you and make room for a new role that better aligns with your values.

Cons of Loud Quitting:

Damage to reputation: If not done professionally, a dramatic exit can leave you looking unprofessional in the eyes of future employers.
Emotional fallout: A loud exit can feel great in the moment, but it may carry some emotional baggage or regret once the dust settles.
Relationship strain: Relationships with colleagues or your boss could be impacted negatively, making references or networking difficult in the future.

Which is the Best Career Move?

Now that we understand the difference between Silent Quitting and Loud Quitting, the question is: Which one is the best career move for you? Well, it depends on your situation. Let's weigh the options based on a few key factors:

1. Your Current Job Satisfaction

Silent Quitting is perfect if you’re still okay with your role but need a mental break. If your job is just… fine, and you're in a season where you can afford to do the bare minimum without feeling guilty, then Silent Quitting could be your solution.
Loud Quitting, however, is your move if you’re absolutely done with your current job. If you're burnt out, miserable, or facing a toxic work environment, Loud Quitting might offer the clean break you need to make a fresh start.

2. Career Goals

If you’re aiming for a big promotion, new projects, or climbing the corporate ladder, Silent Quitting may not be your best friend. It’s hard to grow in a company when you’re not putting in the extra effort. However, if you’re looking for a slower, less intense path to career growth, Silent Quitting might help you avoid burnout while still remaining employed.
On the flip side, Loud Quitting might be necessary if staying in your current position is no longer aligned with your goals. By leaving with purpose, you free yourself to pursue new opportunities that actually match your long-term aspirations.

3. Mental Health

If you’re feeling overwhelmed but not quite ready to jump ship, Silent Quitting might help you create space for mental and emotional recovery. By setting boundaries and stepping back, you protect your well-being while you figure things out.
If your mental health has been severely affected and you need to get out of a toxic environment, Loud Quitting might be the best course of action. Walking away from a bad situation can be liberating, and you’re reclaiming your agency in the process.

4. The Job Market

Silent Quitting might be ideal if you want to stay employed while exploring other options. It lets you coast until you find something better, without the pressure of making an immediate exit. Plus, if your field is competitive, you’ll have the security of an ongoing paycheck while you make your next move.
If you're in a position where you can afford to leave your job and are confident in securing another one (or transitioning to something else), Loud Quitting can be a powerful statement. Sometimes, taking a leap of faith and burning bridges is exactly what it takes to force you to move forward in your career.

What to Consider Before You Decide

Before you pick a side—Silent or Loud—it’s important to consider the long-term impact on your career and reputation. Here are some things to think about:

Professional Relationships: If you’re considering Loud Quitting, remember that how you exit matters. You don’t have to go out with a bang, but you also don’t want to leave in a cloud of resentment. A professional exit is always preferable, even if you’re leaving a toxic situation.
Financial Security: If you’re financially stable, Loud Quitting might feel like a breath of fresh air. But if you don’t have a solid plan, it could be risky. Silent Quitting allows you to maintain a paycheck while you transition to the next step.
Future Opportunities: Silent Quitting can keep doors open within your current company or industry. If you Loud Quit, make sure you have a strong plan for your next career move, or it could create unnecessary barriers for future networking.

In Conclusion: The Ultimate Decision

At the end of the day, Silent Quitting vs. Loud Quitting is not just about how you leave your job—it’s about where you’re headed next. Neither option is inherently “bad,” but both have different implications depending on your goals, mental state, and the nature of your current job.

Silent Quitting is for those who need a break but aren’t quite ready to make a change. It’s about finding balance and protecting your well-being.

Loud Quitting, on the other hand, is a bold choice. It’s for those ready to break free and start anew—sometimes with a little emotional drama for added flair. It’s a powerful act of reclaiming control.

No matter which route you choose, the most important thing is to make the decision that feels right for you and your future. Whether you’re quietly stepping back or dramatically leaving the building, the next chapter of your career is entirely in your hands.