Last week, I shared everything I’ve learned as a self-published author. This week, I want to take it a step further and talk about the hardest parts of being an indie author—because let’s be real, this journey isn’t easy. But just because something is hard doesn’t mean it’s impossible.
1. Marketing Feels… Weird?
For some reason, marketing is the hardest part of being an indie author for me. I always worry:
- Will people even care?
- What will people think?
- Am I annoying people by talking about my books?
And yet, here I am, making videos and writing this blog post because I know the only way to push past fear is through action. Marketing is really just about connection—connecting with readers, fellow authors, and people who love books as much as I do.
To push through, I’ve been:
✔️ Learning new strategies (hello, Pinterest!)
✔️ Asking for advice in writing groups
✔️ Testing different approaches and adjusting when needed
✔️ Taking small weekly action to get me closer to my big goals
2. Talking About My Books is Harder Than Writing Them
I spend years writing a book—building the world, developing the characters, crafting the plot. And then when someone asks, “What’s your book about?” I freeze.
I have an elevator pitch, but it always feels awkward. (Imposter syndrome, anyone?) To get better at this, I’ve been:
✔️ Joining a weekly writer’s group where I introduce my book to new people
✔️ Practicing talking about my book in a casual, natural way
✔️ Reminding myself that readers do want to hear about it
3. Writing Sales Copy is a Struggle
If I have a hard time talking about my books, you can bet that writing about them in an engaging way isn’t much easier. Launch emails, book blurbs, social media captions—it all feels so tricky to get right.
To improve, I’ve started using AI tools as a jumping-off point. I don’t copy and paste—I tweak, rewrite, and make it mine. And with each launch, I feel like I’m getting better.
The Biggest Challenge? Fear & Imposter Syndrome
At the end of the day, all these struggles come back to fear—fear of failure, fear of judgment, fear that no one will care. But I remind myself that fear is just my brain trying to protect me. It’s not real.
I used to perform in musical theater, and right before stepping on stage, I’d get the jitters. But as soon as I was under the spotlight, the nerves disappeared. It’s the same with marketing, pitching, and putting myself out there. The fear fades once I take action.
So, here’s what I’m holding onto:
- It’s okay to be awkward.
- It’s okay to not be perfect.
- It’s okay to mess up.
Because at the end of the day, I love being an indie author. I chose this path, and I’m still so happy I did.
If you like to keep up with my writing journey as I create this new urban fantasy series, then join the waitlist for Book 1 – World Ablaze! I’ll be sending out monthly updates, secret behind the scenes look at characters, and more fun as I spend the next few years on this fun, magical adventure!
