The Universe Isn’t Testing You: Understanding the Messy Middle of Business Growth

Ever felt like your business is stuck in the void—that frustrating “messy middle” where nothing seems to be working? Where launches flop, motivation dips, and self-sabotage sneaks in? You’re not alone. And no—the universe isn’t testing you.

In this episode of Heart-Led Hustle, I break down what’s really happening when business feels stuck, including:

• Why your nervous system flags change as unsafe (and triggers self-sabotage, procrastination, or perfectionism)
• The identity shifts required to step into your next level of business growth
• How to meet fear with compassion instead of criticism so you stop spiraling in doubt
• Practical ways to regulate your nervous system so you can hold steady in the void

This conversation is for entrepreneurs who are tired of feeling like they’re failing and want to reframe the pause as part of the process. When you can navigate the in-between with compassion, you’ll find the clarity, resilience, and alignment you need to keep moving forward.

And if you're ready to learn how to manifest through the lens of nervous system safety, join us inside of Regulate & Receive: https://www.the-soul-institute.com/regulate-receive 

Connect With Me Via IG (and feel free to drop any questions you want me to cover in the podcast!): @nikki.heyder

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Chapters

• 0:00 INTRODUCTION
• 0:40 Normalizing the Messy Middle
• 2:02 Beyond the “Universe Testing You” Myth
• 5:09 Why Your Nervous System Resists Change
• 6:52 Identity Shifts and Self-Sabotage
• 9:57 Fear of Judgment and Visibility Blocks
• 12:42 Creating Safety Through Regulation
• 15:36 Meeting Yourself With Compassion
• 20:24 Reframing Fear and External Judgment
• 21:43 Celebrating the Process of Becoming
• 22:53 Invitation to Regulate & Receive