Navigating the Path to Success as a Self-Published Writer: Beyond the Readership

Joining writing groups—online or in your area—can be a valuable step on your journey as a self-published writer. Organizations like Romance Writers of America and Sisters in Crime welcome new members and offer mentorship, contests, and a supportive community of like-minded individuals eager to grow and help other writers.

The Complexity of Self-Publishing

This is an odd question on so many levels. Firstly, it assumes that getting people to read your self-published writing is the definitive measure of your writing quality. This is an incorrectly held assumption. While reaching an audience is crucial for promoting your work and achieving distribution goals, it does not necessarily determine your writing talent. It's true that many best-selling authors are not particularly great writers; they excel in marketing instead.

The Importance of Professional Feedback

For a more accurate evaluation, consider hiring a professional editor who can provide feedback on the merits of your writing. As part of my current business, I provide such services to new authors, helping them identify areas for improvement and growth.

By the time you have progressed to actually writing a book, you should already have a sense of your writing talent. I started writing at age eleven and developed a strong sense of self-worth and writing proficiency through high school, college, and years of journalistic and blogging experience. My confidence in my writing abilities did not depend on a single moment of publishing a book in my forties; instead, it was built over the years of consistent practice and feedback from instructors and classmates.

Learning to Accept Feedback

Remember, after publishing a book, you will never please everyone. There will always be critics and those who dislike your work, as well as those who appreciate it. The key is not to rely on readers to confirm your writing skills; instead, focus on internal validation and continuous improvement based on constructive feedback. If you've gained a reputation as a good writer over the years, this should already give you a strong indication of your potential in the field.

Final Thoughts

Beyond simply gaining readership, the success of a self-published writer lies in the quality of your work, your ability to connect with your audience, and your marketing acumen. While reader feedback is important, it should complement rather than define your journey as a writer. Cultivate your skills, listen to constructive criticism, and keep evolving. You'll find that you don't need to rely on readers to validate your talent; your experience and growth will speak for themselves.