For most of my life, writing and publishing seemed a dream hard to reach. Mostly because the image of most famous writers that was presented by the media to my generation was a bit intimidating and hard to reach. It was one of seclusion, selectivity, money, unwanted-wanted fame, and reserved for the few great ones. This was a different time, one without internet, social media, and writer-friendly technology. Traditional publishing ruled the roost, and the few brave independent authors who dared cross to another dimension were viewed as vane, and even rebels who could not abide and bow down to a perfectly run system that would vomit you if you were deemed not good enough, or below its standards. Many dreamers like me would not dare enter the nightmare, and the ones who became rebels of the system knew they have to pay the price, and a very expensive one it was, literally and figurative, reputation included, and with it, down the dream of being even considered for a traditional publishing contract. Independent publishing was viewed as a mortal sin. Thank God these days are different, although not without its problems. When I realized that my dream of writing could be resuscitated under a new set of rules, I didn’t think twice. It was a new dawn. However, I had many questions. Many of these questions are the same ones that aspiring writers have today, although it is much easier to find the answers now. This post is about some of those questions and how I answered them, as well as questions I’ve encountered.

I want to write, but how do I start?

The short answer to that is just do it, write, but there is so much more to that. When I thought about that question, it wasn’t as easy to answer as I thought it would be. There was so much to consider, and so much more knowledge I needed to gather. I spent nearly two years learning (while writing and transitioning) as much as I could about this new system and independent publishing, but as well about traditional publishing at the time. Many myths were alive, other were just that. I found that the most important issue was my Why. Why did I want to write? Was it just because it was a life dream resurrected or was there more to it? I knew I had to answer that question before taking the plunge. I did. My why is not relevant here, every writer will have a why. So, to answer the question, start with your why. Why do you want to write? How do you see yourself as a writer? Is it for money or a call, or something else? When did your desire/passion for writing start? What triggered it? Have you written anything in the past? Why not? Were you intimidated by misinformation? How do you view writing? As a business? As a hobby? As a career? As a calling? How do you view other writers? Would you consider becoming an independent writer (indie writer) or does traditional publishing align more with your vision? Would you consider becoming a hybrid author?

How do I publish my book?

There is much to learn about this subject, and the good news is that today there is much information on this subject online and in books written by many independent authors, as well as hybrid authors. A hybrid author is one who has published via the traditional model, but also independently. The way to answer this question is for you to educate yourself as much about the publishing industry as you can. Learn about both models, but also, about the different methods to publish your work independently, because there are many, and the cost vary widely between these, from very minimal expense to thousands of dollars. Most important, and once you study this information, is to apply what you learned when you answered question number 1 to answering these other questions about publishing. What attracts you more about each model? Which model mirrors more your work ethic? Would you consider becoming a hybrid author? Would you consider working with an agent? What is your ultimate publishing goal?

Do I have to be an avid reader to be a writer?

Most writers are. It is part of your education. You will learn different styles, voices … Develop your writing style and voice. Never try to imitate another writer. It is a disservice to you, and you would be disrespecting your craft. There is nothing wrong with admiring a best-selling author and learning from that author’s style and work; however, develop your own. Understand that it takes time to learn and grow. Most likely, the author that you admire most has been at it for decades.

Do I have to belong to book clubs or writer’s groups?

Short answer, no, and in other words, you do you (or to each its own). You know what you like and dislike, you know your personality well, and you know what ultimately educates you and fuels you. If these groups work for you and excite you, then go for it. If not, there is no sin in that. These can be a great educational tool, but it depends on your personality, preferences, and goals as a writer.

What is the process of writing and publishing a book?

First, read and learn as much as you can about the topic. Aside from the educational part of this question, it is different for every writer. Inspiration comes in many ways. Most serious writers are disciplined enough to have a schedule or method. Many writers use an outline before writing a book, other writers do not. I don’t outline, but a small outline sometimes develops on the side as I am writing. Many times, as a way of remembering important points, or as new ideas pop. There is no right or wrong way here. It also depends on what publishing model you decide better fits your working style and ethic. There are many ways of publishing a book; learn those venues and their differences. Cost ranges from minimal expense to thousands of dollars. The more you contract out the more money you spend. You can use a publishing house for independent writers, which takes care of formatting, editing, etc. or you can hire each phase yourself, from formatting, to edition, from cover to cover, all the way to publishing your book, hardcopy or electronically (eBook). Amazon is a great way to start, if in doubt, and in my opinion, one of the least expensive ways to publish a book, and still put out a decent product. They offer editing and other services as well. There is also a good amount of information on their site, as a way to educate aspiring writers, which translate in more revenue for the company, eventually. Follow the method that you prefer and one that lets you present a well-crafted quality book for your readers, one that you are proud to offer.

Who promotes my book?

You do. Whether you publish traditionally or independently, you will have to do some work to promote your book, and the venue you use is up to you, whether that is social media, blogging, related products (physical products) and promotional materials, giveaways, activities … However, when you have a team behind you, such as in traditional publishing, there are advantages to that, as well as an established name behind your book and proven methods to spread the good news. As an indie writer and publisher, you can do the job yourself or hire people to do it for you, depending on how deep your pockets are. There is also the issue of personal preferences, for example, you might not enjoy social media as much, but prefer blogging, or other methods. I have to say, although I don’t follow this, that being robustly involved in social media, having a YouTube channel, a podcast … does help in spreading the good news about your work faster and widely. It is something that I recognize as a great advantage but not necessarily follow. It all depends on what your ultimate goal is. There are three very good sources to further your education that I like, that is, if you don’t know where to start. One is Stephen King’s book On Writing, Joanna Penn’s book The Indie Author Guide, and a copy of The Writer’s Market (for traditional publishing). Joanna Penn is an independent best-selling author. Her YouTube channel and blog are a great place to start. There are more suggestions under the tab On Writing -FAQ on this blog.

Do I need to be involved in social media? How much is too much?

The short answer is yes. You should have some kind of internet presence. Times have changed, and it is part of a very fast environment and culture development. However, you should not have to feel obligated to join every social media site. If you enjoy that, by all means, the more exposure the better, but not at the expense of your writing time. I think balance is key. I only have this blog as my online platform; other authors prefer a much robust involvement in social media venues. There is an advantage to online exposure and interaction. Again, it depends on your ultimate goal. If selling as many books as you can is your goal, then you will need a well-crafted and thought-out online presence.

Will I make tons of money?

Making tons of money is the wrong reason to enter the writing world. Most writers, good or bad, do not make a high income. A better approach would be to treat “making money” as a byproduct of your love for writing; however, passion/love alone doesn’t pay the bills. At one point, you will reconsider and go back to your Why, and make a decision. You will consider your ultimate goal and adjust your plan if necessary. Many independent authors are doing very well.

What about branding and trademark?

Developing a brand is to your advantage, whether you become a traditionally publish author or an indie author. People tend to associate a name with branding. Study the books of best-selling authors, and notice common characteristics such as color, typography, mood… It is cohesive and recognizable. This is something you will develop with time, because in the beginning you are learning about yourself as an author. However, when traditionally published you will be coached and steered towards an image/brand. The experts take care of that, in a way. When you publish traditionally, you are under contract with a particular publishing house, for the duration of your contract, and both sides have legal obligations to fulfill; you are also represented by an agent. As an independent author, it is up to you to develop a brand (or not), and your work falls under copyright laws and protected by it. I advise to educate yourself on this topic.

How fast should I write a book and publish it?

Writing a book is not an easy endeavor. It takes much crafting, editing, reviewing, research, and other considerations, aside from the publishing part, which has its own challenges. You should not be in a rush but take as necessary to present a well-crafted book always, one you are proud of as an indie writer. Under traditional publishing, you are under contract and must meet the deadlines expected.

Do I have to stick to a particular genre?

There is no right or wrong answer here. I recognize the advantage of sticking to a particular genre, one you have some kind of degree of passion, but I don’t see it as a rule. The experts will tell you different. From the point of view of developing a brand and polishing your style there is definitely a strong reason to try to write in one genre. Know that the boundaries of writing go as far as the mind of the writer, and in my opinion, imagination and creativity and boundless. I don’t follow the stick to a genre rule. The answer becomes clearer as you grow in your craft.

What is the most important thing to do when trying to become a writer?

Write, but aside from developing a writing process/schedule, I think that it is educating yourself as much as you can in anything related to writing and publishing. You cannot craft a plan to follow a path without information, and knowing where you are headed. There are many books available now as well as websites, podcasts, videos, that you can utilize. Visit bestselling authors websites. Many of them offer tips for aspiring authors. Even the visual education you gain by studying their well-crafted websites is worth it.

I hope this has been helpful and that you continue to educate yourself in the craft, but most of all that you embrace your passion for writing and run with it.

Best wishes,

Inkspeare