How I Followed My Passion

Some people think being an author is too hard—that the work required to publish a book just isn’t worth it. I have to admit that, in the beginning, I felt the same way. I was overwhelmed and unsure of where to start.
But then I took a leap of faith and began writing. At first, I didn’t have a clear plan for my book, and honestly, I wasn’t sure where the journey would lead me. All I knew was that writing brought me joy, and it was something I could look forward to every day.
As I poured my heart and soul into the pages, I watched my story grow into something I never knew I had in me. It was through this process that I found confidence—not only in my writing but in myself.
Now, I want to share what I’ve learned on my journey as a self-published author. If you’re thinking about writing or publishing your own book, here are some tips and tricks that helped me along the way.
1. Write Your Story
The most important step is to have a story you truly want to share with the world. Don’t worry too much about perfection in the beginning—just write. Capture everything that makes your story complete. Whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, or personal experiences, let your passion guide you.
2. Hire an Editor
Editing is essential, and though it may seem expensive, it’s a crucial investment. A professional editor will elevate your manuscript and ensure it’s polished and ready for readers. A well edited book not only enhances your credibility but also provides a better reading experience, making your work stand out in a crowded market.
3. Format Your Manuscript
Proper formatting is key to giving your book a professional finish. Whether you choose to format it yourself or hire a professional, this step ensures that your book prints correctly and looks great on various platforms. I personally learned how to format my own books, which saved money in the long run, but if you’re not comfortable with this step, don’t hesitate to get help.
4. Create a Stunning Book Cover
Your book cover is the first thing potential readers will notice, so it’s crucial that it makes a great impression. A quality, eye-catching cover can be the difference between someone picking up your book or passing it by. You can hire a designer through platforms like Fiverr or use tools like Canva to design your own. Just make sure the cover is aligned with your book’s theme and genre.
5. Get Your Book Noticed Before Launch
One of the best ways to build excitement for your book is to get it noticed before it’s published. If you’re going the traditional publishing route, this means querying agents and publishers. For self-publishing, it’s all about building buzz with an ARC (Advance Reader Copy) team. Websites like BookSirens and BookSprout help connect authors with ARC readers who can review your book before its release. Don’t forget to leverage social media—join Facebook groups, share snippets of your work, and engage with potential readers to build anticipation. The more eyes on your book before launch day, the better!
6. Publishing Your Book
Once your book has been edited, formatted, and reviewed, it’s time to publish! There are several platforms to choose from when self-publishing, including Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, Lulu, and Barnes & Noble Press. Each has its own set of features and distribution options, so do some research to find out which platform best suits your needs. With the right approach, you can bring your book to the world with confidence.
7. Marketing: Don’t Skip This Step
Marketing is vital to your book’s success. While it can be expensive, it doesn’t have to break the bank. Start by researching marketers that fit your budget and needs. You can also take advantage of tools like Facebook Ads, Amazon Ads, and social media to promote your book. If you’re working with a marketing team, great! If not, consider joining communities of authors who share marketing tips and strategies. I personally hired a marketing team but also ran my own ads on Facebook and Amazon to reach more readers.
8. Building a Strong Author Platform
In addition to promoting your book, it’s essential to build your presence as an author. Creating a blog, maintaining social media accounts, and engaging with your audience regularly will help you establish yourself as an authority in your field. Over time, this can open doors to new opportunities, including media coverage and potential speaking engagements.
Final Thoughts
Being an author has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life, and I hope that by sharing my journey, I can inspire others to follow their passions, too. The road to self publishing isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. With the right mindset, preparation, and support, you can bring your story to life and share it with the world. So, if you have a story inside you waiting to be told—go for it. Write that first page. Trust yourself. And remember, the journey is just as important as the destination.