Writer's Digest

CLEARING THE PATH

In spite of how it may look, self-publishing a book is not an easier path to getting published. Authors who decide to take on the publishing of their books are, in essence, starting their own small businesses.

At a certain point in the self-publishing process, authors take off their writer hats and put on their publisher hats. While the creative focus is never set aside, it often takes a back seat once the manuscript moves through the publishing process. This shift from making art to running a business can be jarring. But there are steps authors can take to prepare themselves for the realities of this decision.

Here are some recurring truths of self-publishing that will help you navigate your journey from writer to publisher.

TRUTH 1

There are no shortcuts in self-publishing.

Self-published authors might think publishing their own book allows them to

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