Content Therapy: Tess Barclay’s Fix for Overthinking Content
In the latest session of Content Therapy, Tess Barclay dives deep into the human side of social media.
From battling the guilt of choosing career over family to handling the frustration when others grow faster, this breakdown explores the mindset shifts needed to stay in the game for the long run. If you are stuck in planning mode or feeling the weight of non existent rules, it is time to clock in for some therapy.
Watch the full breakdown in the video below:
Source: Tess Barclay | Busy Blooming
The Content Therapy Breakdown
Tess Barclay addresses the reality that building a brand and a business is difficult and that feeling “stuck” often comes from following rules that do not actually exist. Here are the key mindset shifts for creators in 2026.
- LinkedIn is Underutilized: Over half of brands are running deals on LinkedIn and many find it more effective than other platforms. Niche authority matters more here than a massive follower count (01:28).
- The Season of Building: Tess discusses the struggle of balancing goals with personal time, emphasizing that you cannot have every version of life in one lifetime. Accepting the current “season” helps alleviate the guilt of prioritizing work (04:17).
- Rules That Do Not Exist: Many creators freeze because they feel they cannot meet imaginary standards of consistency or frequency. Breaking these “fake rules” and simplifying to one platform or one series for 30 days is the best way to move into action (09:53).
- The Long Game of Branding: When you have a specific niche, your mission should be the broader through line. Using your niche as a tool to accomplish that mission prevents you from being boxed in by a single topic (13:41).
- Growth Jealousy: Seeing others grow faster is a common struggle. Tess advises trusting the timing of your own journey and avoiding a “victim mindset” regarding the algorithm (18:03).
- Monetization vs. Growth: If your priority is leaving a corporate job, switch your focus to monetization over pure growth for a season. (24:52).
Helpful Links From This Video
- Busy Blooming HQ: https://www.busyblooming.ca/hq
- Download the FREE LinkedIn Creator Marketing Report & Playbook from Hubspot here: https://clickhubspot.com/cf8abe

The Plot: See More
Tess Barclay | Busy Blooming: Social Media Strategy April 2026: Why YouTube is Winning the Creator War
Natalie Dawson: How She Thinks Like the Top 1%
Editor’s Note
I really love Tess’s perspective on “fake rules.” As someone who just hit a major publishing milestone, I can attest to the fact that the hardest part is often just getting out of your own way.
- Reminder for myself and you: Check out the HQ website https://www.busyblooming.ca/hq
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Disclaimer: This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views expressed are personal opinions and do not constitute professional, medical, or financial advice.