Being a creative entrepreneur is one of the most challenging careers you can choose. The journey from having a creative idea to turning it into a successful business is full of obstacles, setbacks, and failures. But, despite the difficulties, creative entrepreneurs keep pushing through and find ways to make their ideas a reality.

One of the biggest difficulties of being a creative entrepreneur is that you are often working alone. You have to be both the creative and the business person, and this can be a daunting task. You have to be able to balance your creative vision with the practical realities of running a business. This can be a struggle, and it's easy to lose sight of your original vision.

Another challenge is the lack of stability. The creative process is often messy and unpredictable. You may experience moments of doubt, frustration, and self-doubt. You may also face rejection and criticism from others, which can be difficult to handle. But, despite these difficulties, it's essential to keep pushing through and stay focused on your goals.

The middle of the creative entrepreneurial journey is often referred to as "The Hard Middle." This is the stage where you've moved past the excitement of starting a new project but are not yet seeing the results of your hard work. It can be a time of frustration and uncertainty, but it's also a critical time to keep pushing forward.

So, how do you keep pushing through the hard middle and maintain your creative vision? Here are a few tips:

1. Stay connected to your why. Remember the reasons you started your creative project in the first place. What inspired you to pursue this career, and what do you hope to achieve? Keeping these reasons in mind will help you stay motivated and focused.

2. Surround yourself with supportive people. Find a community of like-minded individuals who understand the challenges you're facing and can provide encouragement and support.

3. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small. Acknowledge the milestones you've reached and take time to reflect on what you've accomplished so far.

4. Don't compare yourself to others. The creative journey is unique to each person, and it's essential to stay focused on your own goals and not get caught up in comparisons with others.

5. Take care of yourself. Make time for self-care, exercise, and other activities that bring you joy and help you recharge.

In conclusion, being a creative entrepreneur is not easy, but it is rewarding. The hard middle can be challenging, but it's essential to keep pushing through and maintain your creative vision. Stay connected to your why, surround yourself with supportive people, celebrate your successes, don't compare yourself to others, and take care of yourself. With these tips, you'll be well on your way to success.