Feeling Worn Out At Work? Know About New Workplace Trend Quiet Cracking

Last Updated:June 25, 2025, 14:29 IST

Unlike burnout or quiet quitting, quiet cracking happens when someone continues to do their job but starts to lose motivation and job satisfaction over time.

Have you ever felt like you are doing your job just fine but struggling inside? A new and growing workplace trend called “quiet cracking” describes this silent struggle. It is when employees seem okay on the outside – meeting deadlines, showing up every day – but inside, they are feeling emotionally drained and overwhelmed.

The term was introduced by the learning platform TalentLMS, and it highlights a serious issue in today’s work culture. Unlike burnout, which is more obvious, or quiet quitting, which involves pulling back from extra work, quiet cracking is harder to see.

What is Quiet Cracking?

Quiet cracking is that in-between space, not quite burnout, not exactly quiet quitting. It’s when someone continues to do their job but starts to lose motivation and job satisfaction over time. Unlike burnout, it doesn’t lead to a total breakdown, and unlike quiet quitting, it’s not about doing the bare minimum on purpose.

According to a report by TalentLMS, quiet cracking is a constant feeling of being unhappy at work. This leads to low energy, poor performance, and a growing urge to quit. It often happens to people who still like their actual work but feel stuck in a toxic or limiting environment. They may feel ignored by managers, passed over for promotions, and disconnected from any real growth. They’re not lazy or unmotivated – they’re simply tired of feeling undervalued and blocked by things they can’t control.

Quiet Cracking Is More Common Than You Think

A survey by TalentLMS of 1,000 U.S. employees found that over half (54 per cent) have experienced signs of quiet cracking, and 20 per cent say they feel it often or all the time. This means many people are just getting through the day, doing their work, but feeling disconnected and drained. The problem is, unlike burnout or quiet quitting, quiet cracking is harder to notice. It builds up slowly and silently, so managers may not even realise it is happening, making it a hidden threat to team morale and productivity.

Why Does Quiet Cracking Happen?

Quiet cracking isn’t about laziness or lack of effort. It often affects dedicated, high-performing employees who feel stuck or unrecognised. They may enjoy their work but feel:

• Unappreciated by managers
• Blocked from growth or promotions
• Bored with repetitive tasks

Over time, this leads to quiet frustration. They keep showing up and doing the job, but start to disconnect emotionally.

How Can Employers Prevent Quiet Cracking?

The positive part is that quiet cracking isn’t permanent. The study outlines practical steps employers can take to make employees feel more supported and appreciated:

• Listen and Communicate: Create a safe space where employees can share concerns without fear.
• Support Career Growth: Provide training, mentorship, and clear chances to grow within the company.
• Show Appreciation: Recognise and celebrate employees’ efforts, no matter how small.
• Prioritise Mental Health: Make mental health resources easy to access and encourage their use.
• Give Freedom and Trust: Allow teams to work independently. Avoid micromanaging, which adds pressure.

These steps can help employees feel more connected, motivated, and less likely to quietly crack under pressure.

Location :

Delhi, India, India

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