Has someone "quiet quit" on you?

In light of all the reshuffling that Covid has produced in the workplace, there's now a popular phrase being used to describe when workers essentially "check out" and do the least possible to keep their jobs while searching for better opportunities on the down low: quiet quitting. 

This had me thinking: Could quiet quitting not also be applied to relationships?

Indeed, many of us have been in that unfortunate situation: Our partner unofficially quits on us and the relationship by doing the absolute minimum. Once we confront them about their not pulling their weight, they become defensive if not downright hostile, charging that we're being overdramatic.

Easy for them to say, right? 

Carrying the entire relationship on one's shoulders is a major cross to bear. When we suspect our partner isn't doing their part, it can be mentally and emotionally devastating. 

All kinds of unpleasant thoughts begin to cross our minds. Are they cheating? Are they no longer attracted to us? In no time, it begins to gnaw at our self-esteem, setting fertile ground for feelings of depression and anxiety. 

But putting up with such behavior should never be an option. 

Approach him or her and try getting to the bottom of it. They may have some valid reasons for being a bit less connected lately, like health worries or stress at work. 

Still, it doesn't give them any right to give the relationship short shrift. Instead of putting you on the back burner, they should consider opening up to you, viewing the relationship as a refuge rather than as another item on their To-Do List.

There have been countless stories of people walking away from their relationship on account of an indifferent or unappreciative partner. The partner realizes what they've lost and apologizes profusely to no avail. 

If someone is sure they want out, they should be an adult about it: Tell the partner you want to call it quits. At least that gives the other a chance to move on rather than trying to breathe life into a relationship that went defunct long ago. But carrying on as if nothing is wrong is just a cowardly way to go about it. 

There is no place for ghosting or quiet quitting in any relationship. To me, it's almost as despicable as cheating -- which may be taking place behind the scenes regardless. 

As I've noted in myriad posts, communication is essential to the survival of a relationship. Stonewalling your significant other, unless corrective action is taken, can only lead to bitterness and an eventual breakup.