Almost all successful independent authors say that
luck had a huge part in their success. While it is easy to look at some of
their careers, such as adventure writer Hugh Howey, and find instances of
getting stories in front of the right eyes at the right time, their “luck” is born from years of prolific writing and uncommon
determination.
Many people quit their day jobs to become independent authors,
thinking that anyone who can write a story can publish it themselves as e-books
or a print-on-demand volume. While it has never been easier to avoid seeking
representation and traditional publishers, getting your book published and in
the hands of enough people is still quite
a bit of work. Authors still face long odds to make a living, independently or
not. The most successful authors approach independent publishing and writing as
a long shot and rarely plunge
into an unknown venture.
Publishing your own work offers many advantages. You
can publish your work much faster independently, and if you write prolifically
and constantly work to find reviewers and best-selling authors willing to
endorse your book, you can be successful. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking
that anyone can do it, however. Authors write because they have something to
say, something they NEED to
say. If you’re only in it for the fame and money, you’re already a few steps behind.
Michelle von Quilich is a customer service
representative by day and a budding independent author. She has collaborated on
an e-book about indie writing and is at work on another
project.
