Publishing

Four Common Self-Publishing Roadblocks and How to Overcome Them

Self-publishing a book can be a daunting task, just the process of writing a book is a massive undertaking. It's not hard to see why some people hesitate to commit so much time to the process with so many uncertainties.

Complicating things further is that much of the work lies not in the actual writing process, but in ancillary activities like editing, typesetting, cover design, and marketing. For many writers, these activities are annoyances that spark frustrations and squash their aspirations. But self-publishing doesn't have to be cumbersome, confusing process. It's important to know that publishing your book takes more than a little time and the ability to Google "How do I self-publish a book?" It takes specific skills, and the completion of certain activities. If you don't know what those activities are or how to complete them, they can turn into roadblocks.

  1. My Manuscript Is Written. What Do I Do Now?
  2. I Just Can't Do It
  3. Self-Publishing Costs More Than I Can Afford to Pay
  4. I'm Just Too Busy

Let's discuss these four roadblocks that people typically encounter during a book project. As you forge ahead on your self-publishing journey, consider how these issues can stall the project - and how you can overcome them.

Roadblock 1:

My Manuscript Is Written.
What Do I Do Now?

Once your manuscript is done, there are any number of additional tasks to perform that contribute to creating the book: designing the cover; deciding what, if any, art you're going to include; typesetting size; whether you're going to have e-books or audiobooks made; getting it printed; and oh yes, how you're going to market the thing. There are any number of things left to do outside of simply writing your book. What happens then?

Overcome it:
Most writers aren't seasoned pros at book production, but you have resources. Xlibris' reliable, professional publishing team will guide you through the process step by step. That means you can rest assured you're not skipping any important steps as you go along, and our professional guidance ensures you do it correctly. This gives you the opportunity to know your book will turn out just the way you want it.
Call your publishing consultant at 844-714-8691 to have your questions answered, including these:

  • How much input will I have on my book's cover design?
  • Can I choose whether it's available in e-book or not?
  • How will Xlibris help me market my book?

Info to help you prep for the consultation:


Roadblock 2:

I Just Can’t Do It

Self-doubt is the writer’s biggest enemy. Many have fallen victim to creeping self-doubt at one point or another. No matter where you are in the process of creating your book, self-doubt can squash your momentum, convincing you that you just aren’t good enough and that you should just quit now before you embarrass yourself.

Overcome it:
Most writers aren't seasoned pros at book production, but you have resources. Xlibris' reliable, professional publishing team will guide you through the process step by step. That means you can rest assured you're not skipping any important steps as you go along, and our professional guidance ensures you do it correctly. This gives you the opportunity to know your book will turn out just the way you want it.
Call your publishing consultant at 844-714-8691 to have your questions answered, including these:

  • How many writers do you talk to who never publish their book?
  • Is there any kind of editorial review I can purchase to help me get an honest appraisal of my book?
  • Can you tell me about someone else who felt like this and struggled through it?

Info to help you prep for the consultation:


Roadblock 3:

Self-Publishing Costs More Than I Can Afford to Pay

Self-publishing isn’t free, and sticker shock can certainly set in. And finances can be an issue for some people, especially with the pandemic going on. Self-publishing puts you in charge of your own destiny much more than traditional publishing methods, but that also means putting more of yourself into it, including cash.

Overcome it:
With different services at different price points, Xlibris offers a variety of packages for a variety of budgets and needs. Better still, by offering payment plans that allow you to pay in installments, you can take your time in planning out your book’s release.
Don't let imaginary sticker shock stop you. Call your publishing consultant at 844-714-8691, and ask:

  • How much does a publishing package cost?
  • Are there additional costs later?
  • How can I save on some of these costs?

Info to help you prep for the consultation:


Roadblock 4:

I'm Just Too Busy

Between family and work commitments, and the day-to-day busywork that can keep you from getting your book published, it is easy to give up on what may turn out to be a long-term project. After all, there are only 24 hours in a day. Why set aside a fraction of your day on an endeavor with uncertain results? Why give energy to a project that may or may not give you the outcome you envisioned?

Overcome it:
The old expression says, "If it’s important, you’ll make the time." Schedule time throughout the week to focus on your book. Whether you spend one hour or three, make sure you’re making some sort of progress every time. Additionally, Xlibris has a team of knowledgeable, responsive, efficient consultants to keep you on course. They’ll advise you on which tasks to prioritize and help you find the time you need to put into moving your book from idea to reality. You’re putting in the time, but we can help you move through each step in the process one at a time.
The first step is easy. Call your publishing consultant at 844-714-8691 and ask:

  • How much will I be involved in the publishing process with Xlibris?
  • Will there be someone to help me when I have questions?
  • How long will it take to get my book published?

Info to help you prep for the consultation:

Self-publishing, like any creative pursuit, is not a walk in the park and comes with its own set of roadblocks. But with the right team helping you every step of the way, you can overcome these roadblocks easily. So don’t let that dream of turning your idea into a book and having it published remain a dream. Reach out to us; our mission is to get authors through every self-publishing roadblock there is. We’ll clear the path for you.

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