Being a self-publishing author is different compared to traditionally publish one. First thing there’s the difference of duties between the two. For a self-published author, he has to be involved in every aspect of his book’s production. From writing the book to having it produced and sold is all in the author’s hands. While traditionally published authors have the luxury of having much-needed help from their respective publishing house. There is also the fact that self-published authors have to shoulder all the publishing expenses. This is why some writers tend to give up their dreams of being authors if they can’t get into traditional publishing. Because they deem self-publishing to be too difficult and costly. But you should never limit yourself and give up on your book writing dreams. With the right attitude and advice, you can still achieve your dream. Here are some great tips on how to unleash the best self-publishing author in you.
Be courageous
One of the main reasons why some authors are afraid of self-publishing is because they are afraid of failure and are unwilling to make sacrifices. But when it comes to publishing a book especially a self-published book you should know that nothing is ever gained without taking a risk. So be courageous and don’t think of failure. Instead, visualize your success and work hard for it. The most important thing when it comes to self-publishing a book is your perception on the whole process. If you perceive it to be a chore, then it is nothing more than a chore. But if you accept it as a challenge and yet have fun with the process then it will be so much easier.
Lay out your reasons for publishing your book
Self-publishing takes a lot of work and resources. This is why you should be clear on why you want to publish a book. Being transparent when it comes to self-publishing your book is a great way to motivate yourself during the hard times. Write your motivations on a piece of paper. This will make them seem more concrete. You should know that your motivation is what propels you to work hard on your book and may mean the difference between failure and success. Your motivation is what prompts you to be passionate about your work and helps to fuel your drive as a writer.
Have a long term plan
One of the main reasons why some authors fail in self-publishing is because they lack foresight. Focusing on the present is a good thing because it allows you to take the process one step at a time. But you should also be sure to make a long term plan for your book. What do you do once you finished and produced your book? How do you promote it? When do you release it? How are you going sell it? You should know every aspect of your book and have an overall plan on how to sell it.
Be realistic about self-publishing
Although self-publishing is a viable path for most authors you should also know when to be realistic about it. Self-publishing makes it possible for you to produce your book and market it. It also makes it possible for you to sell your book and earn you a certain reputation. But if you want to truly reach your earning potential as an author you should use the reputation you gained as a self-published author to be accepted into a traditional publishing house. You should know that as rewarding self-publishing is, being attached to a traditional publishing house will grant you more advantages in the long run. Think of self-publishing as a way for you to get a more lucrative deal with a traditional publishing house.
Remember to think of the cost of self-publishing as an investment, not a cost. [A book is] an asset that earns you money long-term. – Joanna Penn