Did you just finish writing your book? Congratulations! Now comes the big question: “How do I publish it?” If you’re like many authors, you’re feeling a mix of excitement and uncertainty. One of the first decisions you’ll make is whether to go with a traditional publisher or take the self-publishing route. Traditional publishers bring experience and connections, but the process can be slow and competitive. Meanwhile, self-publishing gives you total control, but it’s all on you to manage everything from editing to marketing.
It’s a lot to think about, right? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. To help you decide, let’s dive into seven key questions you should ask yourself before taking the self-publishing plunge. This way, you’ll know exactly what to expect and can make the best choice for you and your book’s success.
Here Are a Few Questions You May Want to Ask Yourself Before You Self-Publish
1. What is your motivation and purpose for publishing your book?
Let’s be real: writing a book takes a lot of effort, and self-publishing takes even more. It’s not just about crafting a great story; it’s about managing the whole process from start to finish. So, what’s driving you? Are you hoping to make a splash with sales, or do you have a message that just can’t wait? If you’re in it for the money, remember that self-publishing is a business, and you’ll need a business mindset. Did you know authors typically spend 10% of their time writing, 15% on publishing, and 75% on marketing? Keep that in mind as you move forward.
2. Do you have a plan for marketing and promoting your book to ensure it is successful?
If you’re planning to market a self published book, it requires some hustle. Think about it: you’re responsible for creating the buzz, booking events, running social media campaigns, and maybe even buying ads. Before you publish, have a solid marketing plan. It could include social media strategies, book reviews, press releases, or other ways to get the word out.
3. Do you have sufficient knowledge of the publishing process and all its complexities?
Self-publishing is exciting, but it’s also complex. There are copyright laws to understand, royalties to consider, and formatting to get right. Have you researched what it takes to self-publish a book? If not, start learning. A little bit of knowledge upfront can save you a lot of headaches later. Mistakes in the publishing process can be costly in terms of both time and money. So, make sure you know what’s involved.
4. Am I prepared to handle the complicated logistics involved with publishing myself?
Self-publishing isn’t just about hitting “publish” and waiting for sales to roll in. It involves formatting, cover design, selecting a distribution platform, and so much more. Are you ready to handle all of that? If you’re not, that’s okay—you can always hire professionals to help with the parts you’re not comfortable with. But it’s essential to know your limits and be prepared for the logistics.
5. Is your book written for a specific market niche or group of people?
Here’s a tip: it’s easier to market a self-published book if you have a clear target audience. Who are you writing for? The more specific you can get, the better. This helps with everything from marketing to book design. A well-defined niche can make promoting your book more cost-effective and help you reach the right readers.
6. Am I willing to invest the time required to self-publish successfully?
Let’s be honest: self-publishing is a time-sink. Beyond writing and editing, there’s a ton of marketing, networking, and general hustle involved. Are you willing to put in the hours? If you think this is going to be quick and easy, think again. It’s all about persistence and patience. You need to be in it for the long haul if you want to succeed.
7. Do you have a way to sell books directly?
Selling directly to readers can be a goldmine, especially since you keep more of the profit. Do you have a plan for direct sales? This could be at book signings, conventions, or even through your own website. Don’t underestimate the power of a strong direct sales strategy—it can make a big difference in your success as a self-published author.
End Note…
I started my journey with self-publishing, and I’ve learned a lot since then. In fact, after publishing fourteen of my own books and 75 expert collaborations, I realized I had so much more to share. My first self-publishing experience taught me valuable lessons, turning a disappointing launch into a success by re-publishing with new insights. The book publishing process can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.
If you’re taking the self-publishing route, remember that the launch is just the beginning. It’s not just about publishing a book; it’s about building a legacy and connecting with a community. If you’d like to know more about self-publishing, come check us out at Brave Healer Productions. We’ve got the support and resources to help you along the way.
