Traditional Publishing Vs Self-Publishing?

So, you're thinking about publishing your book but unsure whether self-publishing is the right move

Let me break it down.

If you are like me and have ‘control’ written all over your DNA self-publishing it is. From start to finish, you will be in the driver's seat and have complete creative control—every word, image, and design element stays true to your vision. 

Traditional publishing is a different story. 

Just getting a manuscript accepted by a traditional publisher is tough. It’s not just about the quality of your work; it’s about what they think will sell. This often means multiple rounds of revisions, sometimes even altering the core messaging of your book. 

With self-publishing, you publish what you want. Your book stays true to you, and that's incredibly empowering.

Now, let’s talk money. 

While self-publishing requires upfront investment it can be more rewarding in the long run. Unless you’re a celebrity, expect lower royalties from traditional publishers—typically around 10-15%. Self-publishing with Amazon Kindle Direct Publisher for example, can get you up to 70%. Plus, once your book is out there, those higher royalties add up, especially if your book gains traction.

Marketing and distribution as a self-publisher are often concerns. Yes, these responsibilities fall on you, but you don’t have to do it alone. Many self-publishing companies offer support with distribution—getting your book into bookstores, online platforms, and even international markets. Plus, with print-on-demand services, you don’t have to worry about upfront printing costs or storage. Your book is printed as it’s ordered, meaning less risk and waste.

Speed to market is another advantage.

Traditional publishing can take years—yes, years—from manuscript acceptance to when your book actually hits shelves. With self-publishing, once your manuscript is ready, you can have your book available for purchase in weeks. This is especially beneficial if your content is time-sensitive or if you're eager to start building your author brand sooner.

Let’s also touch on the prestige factor.

Sure, there’s a certain allure to being published by a big-name publisher, but the industry is changing. Many successful authors today started with self-publishing. Plus, traditional publishers are scouting for successful self-published authors, meaning self-publishing could be your stepping stone to bigger opportunities.

If you value creative control, faster time to market, and higher earnings, self-publishing is a fantastic option. It allows you to bring your book to life on your terms while still reaching a broad audience with the right support.

If you’re worried about the challenges, remember—you’re not alone. With the right team & resources, you can navigate self-publishing successfully, keeping the integrity of your work intact. I’m here to help guide you through this process, ensuring that your book is exactly how you envision it.

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