My Self-Publishing Process / 8 Tips for Authors

My self-publishing process so far has been something to write home about. Well, I am at home, but you know what I mean. I’d like to give my readers a list of to-dos I wish someone would have given me. If you were to ask me what advice I’d give you based on what I’ve learned so far, I’d say: 

1. Believe.

Choosing to self-publish takes a lot of belief in yourself, and for those of us who think we’re stupid when we actually have an IQ of 120, believing in ourselves isn’t always easy. My process started with a manuscript in 2021, and I didn’t actually do anything with it until 2026. It sat in a drawer for 5 years, and one day I pulled it out and decided, “I’m going to publish this.” By exposing it to the light of day, I began touching people’s lives before it even became a book on the shelf. I made a commitment to it, and once I did that, it found itself traveling the world. The manuscript was displayed at my art exhibition, and then I built a website for preorders, and then I designed a poster for events, pop-up booths, etc. 

2. Research, research, research.

No, I didn’t go to the library with a monocle and read heavy textbooks. I literally just Googled things and used the AI summary. Now, you may be thinking, “That may not be accurate.” This is true! If the answer to whatever question I Googled was truly important enough to make or break a decision, I made sure that the information came from a credible source. But if you want to get a general idea about where the hell to start, I think a good ole search engine will do. When I would Google a question, I would go one step further to consolidate what I learned into one clean Google doc. I’d open that Google doc, type a few words to summarize what the question was regarding, highlight the text, and hit “Insert” and then “Link.” I’d CTRL “v” that link and go on my merry way, knowing that every question I’ve Googled the answer to is now linked for future reference. Welcome to how my brain works. Click the example below. 

What is a self-publicist?

3. Take free lessons! 

Another helpful resource has been Reedsy Learning. They have short, easy lessons on a variety of topics, such as traditional vs. self-publishing, book marketing, Amazon ads, book design, and book reviews. Better yet, they’re free. This model by the Independent Book Publishers Association was also really helpful in understanding the types of publishing routes authors can take. Ultimately, my decision to self-publish came down to me wanting creative control. Exposure is incredibly important to me, but so are aesthetics. I couldn’t let one of the Big 5 Publishers create an ugly cover. I’m sorry, but I hate the color red, and I would cry if they chose a red cover. I can't let that happen. Besides, there is a 1% chance debut authors can even get a book deal, even with a literary agent.

4. Trust the chaotic process.

Once you feel like you’ve learned enough to do the thing, take a deep breath. This is a big commitment! But it's also such an empowering journey. My process was anything but linear, but I love myself regardless of my ADHD symptoms. For example, I hired an illustrator before I hired an editor! I don’t know if that’s the order in which things normally happen, but I’m pretty sure it’s not. But that’s okay because I gave myself time. I began the self-publishing process one year before the intended publication date, so I knew I had time to do things a little out of order. I contacted Oprah before I even finished the book. I got excited, okay?! If you’re not excited about your book, maybe stop there. An author’s income is laughable, so if you lack the emotional fuel, I fear you will burn out before your project is complete. If you have a manic fire that can’t be extinguished, first of all—let’s be friends—and second of all, you’re in for a wild ride. 

5. Prepare to learn a lot.

I could write a book on what I’ve learned, and I only began 3 months ago. The process can be overwhelming, which is why taking good notes is crucial. For example, here are some bullet points of things I’ve learned so far:

• Your ISBN can be purchased through Bowker.

• Over 40,000 retailers and libraries use Ingram Spark.

• You can publish eBooks on both Amazon KDP and B&N Press.

• Barnes & Noble prefers returnable books at a 55% wholesale discount.

You don’t know what you don’t know, and it’s good to recognize that so you can remain open to learning without judging yourself. 

6. Avoid scams. 

Writer Beware is one site that helps authors avoid known scammers. Many people also rave about the r/selfpublish Reddit thread where actual users discuss their experiences. I personally used these sites to investigate the legitimacy of hybrid publishers such as Greenleaf and Amplify Publishing Group, along with companies like selfpublishing.com. TLDR: None of these places seemed worth it to me given the upfront costs associated with their so-called “services.”

7. Hire out.

I’m an author. I need other professionals to help me get my project to where it needs to be. So far, I have contacted an illustrator and developmental editor.  Because I have experience copyediting and proofreading, I only need developmental editing. I've made it clear to everyone I've spoken with that it is incredibly important to me that my text and visuals are 100% human-created. I am using zero AI in the actual content of this book.

Because I have a marketing background and have worked as a content creator and copywriter, I feel confident in crafting all of the messaging for my website, blog, and social media posts. Despite being an old soul, I know what hashtags are popular on Instagram, I craft really compelling emails, and I have basic knowledge of SEO. I could use serious help with my TikTok and video content, but costs add up when you hire quality freelance contractors. I’m trying to save where I can while still investing in my book—because it is an investment. If marketing services were free, I would absolutely add those on. But as of right now, I'm planning to handle marketing on my own!

I don’t think I did too shabby a job designing my website in Wix, and I think my Canva designs on Instagram look fire. But I still think hiring a book designer is a good idea. They help with endpages, layout, and typography. Lastly, I’m considering hiring a publicist, which is different from a marketing specialist. I’ve created a press kit before, but I mostly know nothing about contacting media outlets. Knowing where you shine and where you need help will serve you greatly. 

8. Take care of yourself.

I've written little notes for myself throughout this process:

• Eat, sleep, hydrate, repeat.

• Take a break for God’s sake!

• Move your body, ya little hottie!

  
  

I feel like I’m in college again. My brain is taking in so much new information, and sometimes I literally have to just stop and remember to take care of my basic needs. Balancing the self-publication process with self-care is crucial to maintaining your sanity and energy levels! Those Reedsy lessons can be read on your phone while you use the elliptical at the gym. The choice isn’t work or your health. Both can be worked on, sometimes simultaneously! Other times, full presence is required. I’ve noticed that I can only multitask when combining a physical activity with a mental activity. This has helped me prioritize what to do and when. I also remind myself to value progress over perfection. As someone who is recovering from OCD, I can tell you that as long as you are doing your best, that is good enough.