Self-care alone cannot combat burnout, according to Flo Scott, chair of the Women’s Business Council for the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce. Instead, Scott argues that a systemic approach is necessary to address the root causes of burnout, which often stem from societal pressures and unrealistic expectations.
In a recent column, Scott emphasized that the culture of “leaning in” and “powering through” can exacerbate feelings of exhaustion and stress. At 41, she reflects on her own career evolution, sharing her journey from what she describes as the “runway” phase to her current “cruising altitude.”
Burnout has become a marker of success in today’s fast-paced work environment, and Scott believes it is time to break that cycle. She candidly recounts how her previous fears of missing opportunities led her to overcommit, sacrificing her personal well-being in the process. By the age of 34, she had achieved significant career milestones, including becoming the youngest director at the Philadelphia International Airport. Despite her professional success, Scott felt the toll of burnout, describing a life divided between two cities and a relentless schedule.
The turning point for Scott came during the COVID-19 pandemic. As many were forced to reevaluate their lives, she found clarity. The pandemic stripped away the façade of constant productivity, prompting her to set stringent boundaries. She made the decision to leave her dream job and return to the Lehigh Valley, focusing on her core priorities: family, career, and community. This reprioritization allowed her to say no to commitments that did not align with her values.
On December 5, 2023, Scott will co-facilitate an event titled “Burnout to Balance: Tools for Thriving in 2026” at Ben Franklin Technology Partners in Bethlehem. This interactive luncheon aims to equip attendees with practical strategies for managing burnout. Participants will engage in discussions and role-play scenarios that address critical aspects of workplace wellness, including auditing workloads, establishing clear communication, and fostering community connections.
Scott co-hosts the event with Katarah Jordan, Vice Chair of the Women’s Business Council. Together, they hope to empower attendees to take back their time and redefine success in their personal and professional lives.
Scott acknowledges that her current focus on family has led to the temporary omission of fitness, hobbies, and other personal interests. Yet, she remains optimistic about the future, believing that priorities will shift as her family dynamics change. As she notes, “The house will be quiet again, all too soon.”
Those interested in attending the event can register through the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce website. Scott’s insights reflect a growing recognition of the importance of addressing burnout and fostering a healthier work-life balance, encouraging a shift towards more sustainable professional practices.
