Understanding the Concept of “Quiet Cracking”
Every day, individuals wake up, head to their jobs, and complete their assigned tasks with the best of their abilities. However, many might be experiencing a phenomenon known as “quiet cracking” without even realizing it. This term has emerged as a new buzzword that highlights a lack of fulfillment in the workplace, often related to job satisfaction, workload, or opportunities for growth. Unlike “quiet quitting,” which can directly impact an employee’s performance, “quiet cracking” is more about an individual’s overall happiness rather than their productivity.
Wayne Hochwarter, a senior professor at Florida State University’s College of Business, explains that this issue often appears among recent college graduates who start their careers with high energy and enthusiasm. However, after a few years, they begin to question whether their current path aligns with their long-term goals. This realization can lead to a sense of disengagement and dissatisfaction.
The Prevalence of Disengagement
The issue of disengagement is not limited to younger employees. A recent survey by TalentLMS, a company that provides training resources for businesses, found that over half of the respondents experienced “quiet cracking” at their jobs, with about 20% reporting it as a constant occurrence. Similarly, a 2025 report from Gallup revealed that 52% of employees in North America were “not engaged” in their jobs, and 17% were “actively disengaged.” These findings suggest that the problem is widespread across all levels of the workforce.
Hochwarter emphasizes that disengagement is not just an entry- to mid-level phenomenon. He states that it is “pervasive at all levels,” indicating that even seasoned professionals are not immune to these feelings of dissatisfaction.
Factors Contributing to Disengagement
Several factors contribute to the growing sense of disengagement among employees. Many participants in the TalentLMS survey cited a lack of job security as a significant concern. This includes fears of layoffs, limited growth opportunities, and the potential replacement by artificial intelligence. While employees may feel secure in their roles today, their confidence drops when considering the future.
Hochwarter points out that a lack of control over one’s work environment is another major factor. When combined with ineffective management practices, this can create a perfect storm of disengagement. He notes that issues of disengagement are particularly prevalent in the healthcare industry, where nurses often find themselves burdened with administrative tasks instead of focusing on patient care. Similar challenges exist in education, where teachers may feel constrained by standardized testing requirements and curriculum limitations.
Professions that involve direct interaction with people, such as customer service roles, can also lead to “compassion fatigue.” This condition arises from the emotional exhaustion of dealing with others’ problems on a daily basis. As Hochwarter puts it, “You’re just tired of dealing with peoples’ crap, basically.”
The Role of AI and Anxiety
Hochwarter also believes that the current workforce is more anxious than previous generations. This anxiety could stem from concerns about the rise of artificial intelligence or the constant exposure to negative news. As a result, employees may arrive at work already feeling drained, making it difficult to engage fully in their tasks.
Addressing the Issue
To combat this growing trend of disengagement, experts suggest that better training and coaching for managers could help. However, Gallup acknowledges that managers themselves are often among the most disengaged employees. Therefore, it is crucial for employees to take a proactive approach to improve their situation. This could involve finding time to recharge physically or emotionally, exploring opportunities within their current organization, or even seeking a new job if necessary.
Hochwarter advises individuals to prioritize their physical and mental health and seek ways to restore their energy and excitement. Sometimes, changing one’s environment can be the key to rekindling a sense of purpose and fulfillment in the workplace.
