Greetings and Good Afternoon,
This week for "Mai's Writing Corner Weekly Blog Series", I wanted to cover what I've learned my 1st year as an indie author. So, before we get started, I hope that your week is going well! Since we've made it halfway through this week, I began reflecting over the course of the past year of my life, and some of the things that I've learned as a first-time self-publishing author. One thing, that I will always reiterate about my journey, is that this is not easy work and it is not for the faint at heart. Sometimes, I wonder how I'm still making it, but I believe that this is my destiny. I believe that this is the work that God has intended and blessed me to do. Sure, it has been tough, and sure, I'm still building, but I believe that the long-term rewards are greater than what's in front of me right now. So therefore, I don't worry because, "I give my talents with love, and I am wonderfully blessed...it is amazing." These words are part of my daily affirmation. When you believe in the power of God's grace, his blessings overflows with abundance.
So, I came up with a list of "10 Things that I Wish I Knew About Becoming An Self-Published Author." If you're thinking of writing a book. Please take a look at my list. It may give you some insight as to what to expect when you take that leap of faith.
1. After the excitement of self-publishing wears off, I wish I knew how difficult it would be to sustain consistent book sales.
2. There's significant planning and organization required for a truly successful book launch.
3. You must create a buzz and a following for your work well before you actually launch the book.
4. Managing more than one social platform is insane! Choose 1-2 social media outlets and focus on making them thrive.
5. Advertising is a major component to not only driving sales for your book, but it also gets you in front of potential readers. Create a budget for it and use it wisely.
6. When you self-publish, it is important to have the support of a team of people (they can include family and friends) that will help get the word out about your book.
7. Building and having a mailing list is paramount!
8. No one knows who you are, and they won't care enough to buy your book, if you cannot properly promote it and sell it.
9. It is important to have more than one book ready to go when you publish. It's so much better if you can sell a series.
10. That there's tons of resources, and you MUST get involved, meet other authors, attend festivals, and be careful for predatory author and/or publishing services.
I hope this information is helpful to you and provides some insight as to how to get started, or what to expect as a new indie author. Keep reading this blog series because next week, I will share a new makeup blog post!
Have a fabulous "Hump Day"!
Thank you for reading my blog this morning. Hey, do me a favor, if you like or love this post, comment on it. I’d love to hear your feedback. Also, please feel free to share it with your family and friends in the social media universe. I greatly appreciate the support.
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