5 Steps to Begin Your Publishing Journey

Me with my first book draft, not knowing where to go or what to do. Now, years later, I help authors navigate the publishing landscape. When starting out, I think these 5 steps can help you get really clear about what you want...

1 . Know your why. When you understand why you are writing a book, you can work through the rest of the steps easily. Everyone’s “why” is different, as it is a unique perspective as to why you wish your book to be published. Is it to teach someone? Or is it to entertain? Is it simply because you want to see if you can? The possibilities are endless, but when you know your why, it is the very essence of what will motivate you to continue writing your manuscript and work to get your book published.

2 . Once you know your why, ask yourself what is your goal as an author? Is your goal to self-publish and learn the steps to publish a book on your own or do you want to submit to a publishing house and celebrate when you are accepted? Do you aspire to be a bestseller? Do you wish to have book signings and attend book events or is it enough for you to have a published book to share with family and friends? Knowing your goal for yourself and your book is an important piece of the process and will help you know which direction to move in the publishing process.

3 . Research publishers. You want to find the publishers that align with your “why” and your goals. That is why steps one and two are so important because when you are sure about those steps, you easily can sift through the publishers and find the ones that are more apt to work with you and that will give you the book and experience you desire.

4 . Ask questions. Remember, the relationship is not just one sided. If you do get interest from a publisher, don’t sign on the dotted line until all your questions are answered and you feel like you have found a good fit!

5 . Be patient. The publishing process is not for the faint of heart, it can take years to find a publisher and then when you do, the editing process can be long and arduous. Just know, at the end of all the ups and downs, you will have your beautiful book that you get to hold in your hands for the first time, and that makes it all worth it!