Should You Self-Publish or Go Traditional?

Here's What I Tell Every Writer

 
 

One of the most common questions I get from clients and fellow writers is:

“Kristen, should I independently publish my book, or should I pursue traditional publishing?”

Spoiler alert: There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The “right” choice is simply the one that’s right for you.

Step One: Try Traditional—If You’re Even a Little Curious

If there’s even a shred of curiosity in your heart about getting traditionally published, I say go for it. Give it a real try and see what happens.

Here’s how:

  • Write a strong query letter.

  • Craft a compelling synopsis.

  • Make your manuscript as bulletproof as possible.

  • Consider hiring an editor (hi, that’s me!) to help polish your work.

Then? Submit it.

And while you’re submitting, write another book. Seriously. The traditional path isn’t fast or easy. You’re putting your dream into the hands of others, and if you're aiming to traditionally publish, you better get used to that.

A Few Things to Remember:

  • No news is just… no news.

  • You only need one yes.

  • You never know when it’ll happen.

But What If You Change Your Mind?

Let’s say you start the traditional path and realize it’s not for you:

“I need to be in charge.” “These gatekeepers are driving me crazy.”

Great. You can pivot anytime and choose to publish independently.

But—please—don’t publish out of frustration.
Indie publishing out of anger usually leads to regrets.

The Right Way to Independently Publish

If you decide to go indie, make sure you do it well. That means:

  • Professional editing (yes, again—someone like me!)

  • Copy editing

  • Proofreading

  • A high-quality, eye-catching cover (designed by you or a pro)

It’s going to take:

  • A financial investment

  • Your time, energy, and focus

So ask yourself:

  • What can you afford?

  • How much are you willing and able to take on yourself?

  • What’s necessary to make your book look professional—and easy to find?

The Good News:

There are tons of online resources that can help guide your indie journey.

The Big Picture: Both Paths Are Hard

Choosing a path is only the beginning.

Whether you go traditional or indie:

  • The journey is long.

  • The terrain is rough.

  • Nothing in this business is easy.

But here’s your permission slip to relax—whichever path you choose, it’s the right one for you.

Final Thoughts: Keep Writing

While you're querying or prepping for indie release, keep writing another book.

Because readers?
They don’t care how your book gets to them. They just want to read it.

And your job is to make sure the manuscript is as strong as it can be—no matter how you publish it.

I’m always here if you have questions.

Have a great day.
—Kristen