7 Things I Learned as a First-Time Self-Published Author

There’s a moment every aspiring author faces. The one where you’ve poured your heart into a manuscript, but the question lingers: What now?

When I typed the last sentence of my first book, I was proud, exhausted, and honestly… a little lost. I had no idea what publishing path I would take. Traditional? Hybrid? Self-publishing? Each option came with its own unknowns.

I quickly realized that self-publishing would give me the creative control I craved, but it also meant I’d need to step into a whole new role: publisher. There were contracts to sign, budgets to plan, and distribution decisions to make. I learned by doing, asking questions, and making mistakes (some costly, some just humbling).

Looking back, the process taught me lessons I’ll carry into every book I write. Whether you’re still dreaming about your first book or you’re halfway through your manuscript, these are the seven things I wish I’d known before hitting “publish.”

1. Contract out what you don’t know.

Self-publishing doesn’t mean doing everything yourself.

A book is a complex project with many moving pieces: cover design, editing, proofreading, formatting, interior layout, marketing materials, and more. If you want your book to look professional (and you do), invest in the skills you don’t have.

I designed my own cover because I felt confident in my Canva skills, but I hired professionals for editing and formatting. And I’m so glad I did. The investment was worth every penny.

2. Have a budget in mind.

Self-publishing can be as affordable or as expensive as you make it, but costs add up fast.

Editors, formatters, cover designers, marketing campaigns… these aren’t just expenses, they’re investments in your work. Before you start, decide how much you’re willing (and able) to spend, and stick to it. A budget helps you make smart choices instead of emotional ones.

3. Treat your book like a business.

Your book is more than a passion project; it’s a product you’re bringing into the world.

Consider setting up your own imprint (your own publishing name), registering your business, and opening a separate bank account. It might feel overly official at first, but when tax season rolls around, you’ll thank yourself.

4. Create a calendar (and stick to it).

Planning is your best friend.

Your publication date isn’t the only date that matters. You’ll also need to schedule pre-orders, proof reviews, advanced reader copies, blog posts, email newsletters, and social media announcements.

Think of your calendar as your publishing map; without it, you’ll risk missing deadlines, rushing decisions, or skipping important opportunities for promotion.

5. Research, research, research.

Self-publishing has a learning curve, but there’s no shortage of information out there.

I spent hours on YouTube, deep-dived into Google searches, and joined Facebook author groups. I researched distributors, compared their requirements, and learned about timelines and technical details. The more you know, the smoother the process becomes.

6. Don’t automatically expect to see your book in stores.

One of my biggest surprises? Your book won’t magically appear everywhere, even if it’s widely distributed.

I used IngramSpark, which makes books available to retailers, but that doesn’t mean every store automatically lists them. When my book didn’t appear on a major Canadian bookstore’s website, I reached out directly. I discovered they now require authors to request that their book be manually added.

Moral of the story: be proactive. Contact your local bookstores. Some will direct you back to your distributor, and others may order directly. Don’t be afraid to ask.

7. Get to work on your next book.

Here’s the best part: once you’ve done it once, the mystery is gone.

The first time, every step feels brand new and overwhelming. The second time, you’re seasoned. You know the pitfalls. You know the shortcuts. And you’ve built momentum, and your readers will be waiting for what comes next.

So don’t stop now. Start writing.

Self-publishing is both exhilarating and exhausting. It’s a mix of creative freedom, business strategy, and relentless problem-solving. But there is nothing quite like holding your finished book in your hands, knowing you brought it into the world.

If you’re on the fence about self-publishing, I hope my experience gives you both the insight and encouragement to take the leap. And when you do, I’ll be here, cheering you on.

Yours in ink,

Sharla