3 Mistakes I Made as a Self-Published Author

…(And What They Taught Me)

When I decided to self-publish my first book, I thought the hardest part would be writing it. I quickly learned that finishing the manuscript was only the beginning. Self-publishing requires you to wear multiple hats—writer, editor, marketer, project manager, and entrepreneur—all at once.

Even with the countless books, videos, and online resources available today, mistakes are almost impossible to avoid. There's always something to remember, revise, or learn the hard way. Looking back, though, those mistakes became some of my greatest teachers. Every setback helped me improve my process, sharpen my skills, and approach each new book with more confidence.

Here are three of the biggest mistakes I made as a self-published author—and how they ultimately made me a better one.

​1. I Didn't Plan My Pre-Release Marketing Early Enough

One of the biggest misconceptions I had was believing marketing started a few days before my book launched. I assumed posting a few promotional graphics on social media would be enough to generate excitement.

It wasn't.​

I soon realized that successful book launches begin months before publication. Readers need time to discover you, become familiar with your work, and build anticipation for what's coming next. Pre-release marketing is about creating awareness, growing your audience, and giving people a reason to care about your upcoming release.

As a new author, you're not just selling a book—you're introducing your brand. Today, I begin promoting much earlier by sharing writing updates, cover reveals, character teasers, behind-the-scenes content, and email newsletters long before launch day. By the time my book is released, readers will already feel invested in the journey.

2. I Rushed the Editing Process​

Like many first-time self-published authors, I tried to save both time and money by handling much of the editing myself. I was eager to meet my personal deadlines and move on to publishing, but I underestimated how important fresh eyes are.

After publication, I received thoughtful reviews and feedback pointing out areas where the story could have been more developed, scenes that needed additional clarity, and opportunities to strengthen character development. While constructive criticism can be difficult to hear, it became invaluable feedback that helped me become a stronger storyteller.

I also learned another expensive lesson: not every editor is the right editor.

Because I was working with a limited budget, I chose the least expensive editor I could find without doing enough research. Unfortunately, they weren't familiar with my genre or the tone and voice I wanted to preserve. Instead of improving the manuscript, the experience cost me both time and money.

Now I understand that hiring an editor isn't simply about finding someone who can correct grammar. It's about finding someone who understands your audience, respects your writing style, and knows how to elevate your story without changing your voice.

3. I Didn't Ask for Enough Help

I've always been fiercely independent. If I could figure something out myself, I would. While self-reliance is valuable, I eventually realized that trying to do everything alone was slowing my growth.
​
The self-publishing community is filled with experienced authors who have already made the mistakes you're about to make. Their advice, courses, podcasts, writing groups, and online communities can save you countless hours of frustration.

Looking back, I wish I had asked more questions, sought more feedback, and leaned into the experience of others sooner. There's nothing wrong with learning independently, but there's also wisdom in accepting guidance from people who've already walked the path.

Today, I view asking for help as part of the publishing process—not a sign of weakness, but a shortcut to growth.

​Every Mistake Is a Lesson

Every writing journey includes failures, disappointments, and unexpected challenges. Ironically, I've learned far more from the moments that didn't go according to plan than from the ones that did.

After completing each book, I spend time reflecting on the entire process by asking myself questions like:

• What went well?
• What didn't go as planned?
• What can I improve before my next release?
• Which parts of the process did I enjoy the most?
• What made the pre-release successful—or unsuccessful?
• What excited me about publishing this book?
• Which areas felt overwhelming?
• Where do I need additional help or education?

These questions help me identify patterns, celebrate progress, and continuously improve with every project.

Self-publishing is a continuous learning experience. No matter how prepared you are, you'll make mistakes along the way. The important thing isn't avoiding failure—it's learning from it.
​
Every lesson becomes part of your publishing blueprint, making each future book stronger than the last.

If sharing my mistakes helps another author avoid unnecessary setbacks, then every one of those lessons was worth it. Growth comes from experience, and every published book is another step toward becoming a better writer, publisher, and storyteller.

---

The Blakk Dahlia (E. Alexcina Brown) is a New York City author/blogger from Macon, GA. Recently, she released the book series, the Heartbreak Diaries, outlining different perspectives of heartbreak. The Dahlia Diaries is a lifestyle blog penned by The Blakk Dahlia, sharing her story in NYC along with life lessons and tips she's learned in her journey.