Why Self Publish

I realize these first posts have been very theoretical. I promise I’ll get down to details next week! It’s just very important to think through your decision to self-publish before you dive in. In that spirit, here are some point / counterpoint arguments for self-publishing.

Why Self-Publishing Is A Horrible Idea

• It takes up a heckofalotof time.
• There’s a steep learning curve.
• Finding solid support can be difficult.
• There are massive logistical headaches involved.
• It brings about unexpected expenses.
• You will get something (important) wrong.
• You will get sick of self-promoting.
• It makes you feel terribly insecure about your writing talents.
• It has the potential to decrease your credibility.

But allow me to give you several compelling reasons why I chose to self-publish.

Why Self-Publishing Is A Fantastic Idea

• You can spend the time you would have used submitting to publishers actually getting content in front of your audience.
• Because all the heavylifting falls to you, you will reap all the benefits (and profits!) from your labor.
• You get to be in control of the creative process.
• It’s a way to gauge how impactful your content is to your audience.
• It makes your content stand on its own two feet.
• A steep learning curve enriches the individual.
• Like any roller coaster, it’s just as terrifying as it is exhilarating 🙂

If you’ve decided to take the self-pub plunge, check out CNET’s list of 25 Things You Need To Know About Self-Publishing. And let me know about your project in the comments! I’d love to hear.