Naked Quitting: Sign of Weakness, or Strength?

In a recent radio and TV segment on Indigo Noticias 2.1, where I usually dive deep into various HR topics, we explored a trend that has been gaining momentum in the workplace: "naked resignation." This phenomenon, particularly noticeable among millennials and Zoomers, refers to the act of resigning from a job without having another one lined up, often in response to poor treatment or a toxic work environment. As we discussed this issue on the show, I was shocked to learn that over 80% of our overall audience felt that newer generations simply "don't have what it takes" to thrive in the workforce. This widespread sentiment got me thinking: Why are so many people critical of these generations for making what many consider a bold and potentially risky decision? Do we have to work in a place where we are mistreated just because of financial needs?

Naked resignation is a workplace trend in China, among other countries, where professionals resign from a toxic workplace environment or a job that does not align with their values, and they do so without a backup plan. The reality is, quitting a job without a plan B, especially when the resignation is not the result of a clear career path or promotion, is not an easy decision to make. Yet, for many millennials and Zentennials, it has become increasingly commonplace. This new generation of workers prioritizes mental well-being, work-life balance, and fulfillment over traditional career expectations. And although I understand that quitting a job without a backup can be seen as reckless, I also believe that it reflects a much-needed shift in how we view work, stress, and personal happiness.

Millennials, those born roughly between 1981 and 1996, and Zentennials, born between 1997 and 2012, have grown up in an era marked by economic instability, rapid technological advancements, and, most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic. These events have shaped our attitudes toward work and life, making us more likely to prioritize personal well-being over job security.

For many, the idea of sticking with a toxic job for financial security is no longer an option. Millennials and Zentennials are highly attuned to the fact that their mental health and happiness are just as important — if not more so — than their paychecks. Studies show that more people in these generations are leaving their jobs to pursue something that aligns more closely with their values. According to a recent Gallup poll, nearly 40% of millennials and more than 60% of Zentennials reported feeling disengaged or unmotivated at work. When job satisfaction is at an all-time low, is it any wonder that many prefer to resign rather than endure a toxic work culture?

However, what has caught the attention of the broader public is not just the decision to leave, but the ”how”. Naked resignation isn't about simply walking out; it’s about resigning without securing another job first. While this could be perceived as a risky move, it speaks volumes about the shifting landscape of work expectations. 

Among the 80% responding to the HR segment on Indigo Noticias, the critiques ranged from claims that these generations "lack loyalty" to accusations that they are simply "entitled" and unwilling to work hard.

While I understand and respect the concerns of the audience, I also believe that their judgments are grounded in outdated assumptions about what it means to be a productive employee. In earlier generations, sticking it out in a job, even when unhappy, was seen as a sign of resilience and commitment. Today, however, many workers, especially younger ones, believe that mental health and personal growth should not be sacrificed at the altar of job security.

Let’s not forget: this “entitlement” is a result of systemic issues. The job market today is vastly different from what it was for baby boomers and Gen Xers. Many millennials and Zentennials have witnessed economic crises, student loan debt, housing unaffordability, and the gig economy, all of which have created a different context for work. Moreover, with the rise of remote work and digital nomadism, there are now more opportunities to explore alternative career paths, such as freelancing, entrepreneurship, or starting a business. It’s no surprise that the idea of staying in a job just for the sake of it is less appealing.

At the end of the day, what’s clear is that millennials and Zentennials are rewriting the narrative around work. While older generations may see the willingness to quit a job as a sign of weakness, younger generations see it as a necessary act of self-preservation. Toxic work environments, unrealistic expectations, and lack of flexibility are no longer tolerable.

As an HR professional and someone who frequently discusses workplace trends, I understand that employers must adapt to these changing attitudes. Companies that want to retain top talent will need to prioritize employee well-being, offer competitive pay, and foster inclusive, flexible work environments. The trend of naked resignation may be unsettling for some, but it’s also a reflection of a deeper societal shift: people, especially younger generations, are no longer willing to sacrifice their happiness for a paycheck.

While quitting without a plan may not be for everyone, it’s clear that millennials and Zentennials are challenging long-standing assumptions about work and success. And just like that, where personal fulfillment is becoming just as important as professional achievement, perhaps it’s time to rethink what it truly means to "have what it takes" in the workforce.