Solutions, not barriers

Cost need not be a barrier to publishing.

I’m of the opinion that finances shouldn’t be a barrier to publishing.

“You should only publish every 2-3 years.”

“You should save however much is required, however long it takes, for an expensive book cover.”

Heck, I’m an editor, and even there I get upset when lack of funds stops an author from putting out their next story.

All too often, that’s precisely what kills the desire to keep writing — when financial strain hits and you have no idea when you can afford to publish your next book (at least not at the level of presentation necessary for the market).

I will say this:

You MAY need to work twice as hard as others, but there are ways to save substantially and still play this game.

- Stop depending on your editor for basic English and copyediting corrections. Even if you still hire an editor, make what you send them the best it can be before they see it. Get curious about your language and LEARN.

- There are extremely affordable cover options out there, and I’ve seen more than a few indies thrive despite never having paid for overpriced design work or expensive illustrations (which I love, for the record, but they don’t come cheap).

- Study marketing outside the author space. Most authors suck at marketing, so don’t expect them (or even videos/courses tailored to authors) to help. Start exploring marketing from the business world, then come back to the writing world stronger and with unique perspective.

- Learn skills useful to other authors and start providing services. Great example: @DKemeridou on X. Check out her graphic design work. Affordable, quality work to help supplement your writing AND build useful connections in the author community.

I’m curious what others recommend for authors working on a limited budget.

Solutions, not barriers, people.