"Self-Publishing 101: What Every Savvy Woman Should Do (and Avoid) on Her Author Journey"

Self-publishing your book is an exciting adventure, but let’s be real—it can also be a bit overwhelming. With all the freedom comes the risk of a few (or a lot of) missteps. To help you avoid those “Oops” moments, here’s a quick guide on what to do—and what to steer clear of—when self-publishing.

Do: Invest in Professional Editing

Your manuscript deserves the red carpet treatment. A professional editor can polish your work until it's brilliant. Skipping this step? Well, let’s just say that typos are not the kind of plot twists readers enjoy.

Don’t: DIY Your Book Cover

You wouldn’t wear sweatpants to a job interview, so don’t let your book show up looking anything less than its best. A professional cover designer knows how to make your book look irresistible—no sweatpants in sight.

Do: Nail That Book Description

Think of your book description as the elevator pitch of your dreams. It’s gotta be snappy, intriguing, and totally you. If writing blurbs isn’t your thing, hiring a copywriter can turn “meh” into “must-read!”

Don’t: Skimp on Formatting

Nothing ruins a good story like weird spacing and wonky fonts. Proper formatting is key, so leave it to someone who knows their way around a stylesheet.

Do: Start Marketing Early

Marketing isn’t just an afterthought—it’s part of the journey. Start building buzz before your book even hits the shelves. Social media, email lists, carrier pigeons—whatever works, just get the word out!

Don’t: Rush the Process

Sure, you’re excited to publish, but take a deep breath. Rushing to publish might leave you with regrets. Give your book the time it deserves to be the best it can be.

Do: Get Help When You Need It

Self-publishing doesn’t mean going it alone. Whether it’s editing, design, or marketing, bringing in the pros can take your book from good to great. Don’t be afraid to ask for a little help along the way.

Self-publishing is a wild ride, but with a bit of guidance, you can avoid the bumps and enjoy the journey. Remember: investing in your book is investing in your success. Now, make that best seller happen!