Becoming a Published Author: Embracing Independent Routes to Success

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In the past, aspiring authors often faced the daunting challenge of securing a traditional publishing deal to see their work in print. However, with the rise of digital technology and the democratization of the publishing industry, aspiring writers now have an array of options to become published authors without relying on a large publisher. In this article, we will explore how to pursue a successful writing career by leveraging independent routes to publication.

  1. Perfect Your Craft

The foundation of any successful author’s journey is honing their writing skills. Dedicate time to practice, read extensively, and seek constructive feedback from peers or writing communities. Joining local writing groups or online forums can provide valuable insights and opportunities to improve your writing.

  1. Write with Purpose

Discover your niche and write with a clear purpose. Whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or self-help, understanding your target audience and the message you want to convey will help you attract a loyal readership. Passion and authenticity in your writing will resonate with your audience and set you apart from the rest.

  1. Edit and Polish Your Manuscript

Once you’ve completed your manuscript, editing and revision are essential. Consider hiring a professional editor or collaborating with beta readers to provide feedback. A polished manuscript increases your chances of creating a high-quality product that will be well-received by readers.

  1. Embrace Self-Publishing

Self-publishing has revolutionized the writing industry, providing authors with an accessible platform to share their work. Numerous self-publishing platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) and Smashwords allow you to publish your book in e-book and print formats without any upfront costs.

  1. Create a Professional Book Cover

A captivating book cover is crucial for attracting potential readers. If you’re not skilled in graphic design, consider hiring a freelance designer who specializes in book covers. A professionally designed cover will give your book the competitive edge it needs to stand out in a crowded market.

  1. Build an Online Presence

Establishing an online presence is essential for independent authors. Create a professional website, start a blog, and engage with readers through social media platforms. Building a strong author brand will help you connect with your target audience and gain a dedicated following.

  1. Utilize Marketing Strategies

Marketing is vital in the self-publishing world. Utilize various marketing strategies such as book giveaways, promotions, and collaborating with book bloggers or influencers in your genre. Building a mailing list of interested readers can also help you launch future books successfully.

  1. Leverage Print-On-Demand Services

To offer paperback versions of your book without investing in a large print run, consider using print-on-demand (POD) services. Companies like KDP Print and IngramSpark allow you to distribute paperback copies of your book globally without holding physical inventory.

  1. Network within the Writing Community

Networking within the writing community can lead to valuable opportunities. Attend writing conferences, join online writing forums, and connect with fellow writers, agents, and small publishers. Collaborations and mutual support can open doors to broader readership and potential publishing deals.

  1. Never Stop Learning

Continuously educate yourself about the publishing industry and marketing trends. Stay adaptable and be willing to adjust your strategies to meet changing market demands. As an independent author, staying informed and open to growth will aid in your long-term success.

In today’s digital age, aspiring authors have unprecedented opportunities to publish their work without relying on a traditional publisher. By perfecting your craft, embracing self-publishing, building an online presence, and adopting effective marketing strategies, you can realize your dream of becoming a published author without the need for a large publisher. Remember, success in the independent publishing world requires perseverance, resilience, and a genuine passion for your craft. Embrace these challenges, and your writing journey can lead you to new and exciting horizons.

Limbo: A Dialogue

Photo from Unsplash taken by Greg Rakozy


Inspired by real events

Death: Boo!

Me:..

Death: *Evil Laugh*

Me: … Boo!

Death: Why are you not scared? 

Me: Why should I be scared?

Death: Because… everyone is?

Me: Not me

Death: Why?

Me: Because I don’t believe in fearing my fate

Death: Your fate is to die?

Me: Not to die, but to go through the cycle of life. It is not like I can stop it from happening, just like I can’t stop the birds from singing, I can’t stop the waves from crashing back into the sea, and just like I can’t stop a child from climbing and falling off a tree.

Death: Humph. You make me laugh, so many people pass by but it is rare that I hear something like that.

Me: Most people don’t think of it.

Death: They don’t. I don’t. Very few do but, most do not. But, if they did maybe, they would respond differently. 

Me: Maybe

Death: Why do most react the way they do? Such surprise at their own demise. Yet, it is the fate of all, I know it to be true. 

Me: Because most people don’t think about you, to them you are not relevant until their journey ends. By the time you arrive, people realize it is too late to do all the things they said they would do. It’s always pushed to later so why bother and by that time you get the best of what they had to offer.

Death: The best of what they had to offer?

Me: Yes! All their potential, all their dreams, and all their goals.

Death: You make me sound like a bad guy. Maybe I am.

Me: No!

Death: I am, look at me! I come with a smile, eager for those to tell me of their journeys, traveling miles. To see life through a million points of view but, I only know little to a few. That guy who says, “It’s time to go” time to move on, how can you say that’s a good guy?

Me: You are just like birth at the end of the day.

Death: Then who is? Who frames me in such a way?

Me: Fear, he stops us from everything, no matter how small. From love, to expression, and the moments we could have had it all.

Death: It all makes sense now, everyone arrives with their fears and wonders how? As though, I am the one who took it all away. Regret, sadness, all these things are nothing I wish to bestow on anyone.

Me: Maybe there will be a glimmer of hope and as time goes on, as humanity will find ways to cope. To enjoy the cycle of life and say “it wasn’t so bad.” 

Death: It is a bittersweet quality that those who have come by are not scared of fear. A satisfied life is all I wish to see rather than tears.

Me: We have a lot to catch up on in many years.

Death: I look forward to seeing you again, some day. What will you do with your time?

Me: While my journey is not clear, I hope it is filled with adventure, joy, cheer. 

Death: May your life be long and happy… now get out of here!