At Self-Publishing Relief, we truly understand how frustrating it can be to get your book published the traditional way. Your novel may languish for years before finding a home with a publisher—if ever. You may consider self-publishing a last resort, but taking charge of your project and publishing independently just might give your book the ultimate gift: discoverability! Here are ten more reasons to self-publish:

Ten Reasons Self-Publishing May Be Right For You And Your Book

1. Total control. As a self-publisher, you have the final say on content, cover, interior design, pricing, and promotion.
2. Better royalties. While you won’t get an advance like you would with a traditional publisher, the royalty rates are higher for self-published authors. See A Simple Guide To Understanding Self-Publishing Royalties.
3. Networking opportunities. As your book goes through production, you’ll connect with many different people in the publishing industry. These are all excellent future contacts and networking opportunities!
4. Boost business. Writers who self-publish nonfiction books related to their day jobs often find they’re adding immense value to their business. A pediatrician might publish a short wellness guide for her patients, or a financial advisor could put together a book about smart financial planning to boost his business and visibility.
5. Instant gratification! (Or nearly instant…) A self-published author can self-publish a book in just weeks, then see his or her book on sale online within hours, and then be paid sixty days later.
6. More shelf time. In a traditional brick-and-mortar bookstore, novels have only a month or two to catch on…but a digital book is forever available. This gives the self-published author time to put promotions in place and continue building a brand.
7. Compared to the helpless feeling of waiting for an agent or a traditional publisher to make decisions about you and your book, the self-published author feels empowered—learning new skills, meeting professionals, making mistakes (and learning from them), handling sales, and interacting with readers.
8. Reputation reinforcement. If you self-publish your first few books, you can use them to reinforce your author brand and build a readership. Traditional publishing houses may be watching—and may even offer a contract for your next book!
9. Niche appeal. Self-publishing is PERFECT for personal projects or niche books. Create a family cookbook or memorial book, or publish a book specifically for people who want to learn how to make macramé plant hangers.
10. And the number one benefit of self-publishing? No rejection from publishers! If you’re tired of receiving rejection letters from literary agents or editors, self-publishing makes the journey from writer to published author possible—right now!

The self-publishing process can be empowering for aspiring authors. The positive energy involved in getting your own project off the ground can propel you much further, much faster than waiting in line for your shot at traditional publication. So stay positive and don’t be afraid to reach out for help.

Are YOU ready to self-publish? Take this quiz and find out!