Writer ≠ Writing
Publishing a piece of writing will never include only the writing component. While I often wish that I could write whatever, whenever, and immediately see results, it doesn’t always work that way.
Writing something is fine, but you also have to be able to explain what your piece is about. Everything is digital; having a network is crucial, and that often requires putting yourself out there.
Moreover, if you are publishing a novel, there are factors such as cover design, editing, and formatting to keep in mind. This can therefore become a small business if you self-publish.
It is helpful to have a plan and timeline in place. For example, you can write an hour a day, dedicate Sundays to creating marketing material for the week, and spend half an hour daily on any design or formatting required.
Additionally, depending on how you want to publish your work, try to determine who can help you with each step in advance for a smoother process.
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Before you consider publishing, however, it is important to know all that goes into it. Getting traditionally published takes time, money, effort, and is selective. Yet, the same thing is true of self-publishing. The only difference is how involved you will be and with what.
I have talked to authors who are contracted with the Big Five publishers (Penguin Random House, HarperCollins, Simon & Schuster, Hachette Book Group, Macmillan Publishers) and authors who have worked with a press, and, considering my own experience as a self-published author, I have concluded that there will be a lot of work, whatever avenue you embark on.
Whether it’s dealing with an abundance of meetings and struggling to have your vision met, or taking charge of each part of the publishing process, it is about far more than writing.
This is not to dissuade any aspiring authors but to educate them. Publishing your writing is commendable and is a huge achievement. I only hope to share my experience to help new and upcoming writers better manage their writing journeys because we all deserve to be heard.
Thanks for reading this far, and as always, happy writing!
