Here is an interview I did with Dominic de Souza from LegendFiction, where I discuss 4 benefits of self-publishing. Mobile app users can view the video here.

There are challenges to self-publishing, but it is SO worth it! You get the following benefits when you self-publish:

• Creative Control
• Higher Profit Margins
• Faster timelines
• Licensing of rights
• Learning new skill sets

Here is why I love self-publishing:

CREATIVE CONTROL

Self-publishing allows us to envision our final product and execute that vision in a way that aligns with our goals. As the Creative Director and Project Manager of your book, you get the opportunity to determine your cover art and illustrations, approve edits, and even find the right paper stock for your book. Instead of going through a company or handing these decisions over to a publisher, YOU can handpick the perfect person to help you with various steps in the publishing process. For example, you may write a novel and then hire an editor for proofreading, a designer for the book cover, a typesetter for the interior layout, and a printer to print copies of your book. These creative decisions are yours.

HIGHER PROFIT MARGINS

"A first-time author with a traditional publishing deal might expect an advance of $1,000-$10,000 and 5-18% royalties once they ‘earn out’ their advance" (Reedsy). Unfortunately, "in today’s industry, it’s commonly accepted that most book advances don’t earn out" (janefriedman.com). Meaning royalties don't kick in.

Most traditional publishers do a push in the beginning, but it is still up to the author to market the book long-term.

When you self-publish, you finance your book. This means greater up-front cost and risk. But your profit margins are also much higher per book. Indie authors stand to gain more over time, especially if they have a strong marketing strategy.

FASTER TIMELINES

From idea development to hard copies, I had A Painted Rosary self-published in about 6 months. That is an incredibly fast turnaround. When you go the traditional route, you might spend that much time submitting a query letter and waiting to hear back from a publisher on whether your manuscript was accepted. Then, you must go through the internal processes of a publishing house where there are many books queued up for release. 

LICENSING RIGHTS

When you self-publish, you can still decide to license your book, if you wish. You just do it on your own terms. For example, you could license the rights to have your book translated, printed, or sold in another country. This may be a down-the-road consideration, but one you have the option to make, nonetheless.

LEARNING NEW SKILL SETS

It may seem daunting at first to pick up all the skills needed for self-publishing, but it has been such a blessing! I've learned how to set up a business, find and hire freelancers, choose paper and book bindings, and market and sell my books on my own. Talk about a resume builder!