So, you’ve got this idea for a book. Maybe it’s a story that excites you, or a topic you feel strongly about. You’re thinking, “Yeah, I should write that book.” But then doubt creeps in. Should you?
I’ve been there. I get ideas for all sorts of books—fiction, non-fiction, young adult, adult, books on writing, meditation, even imagination books. My writing isn’t confined to one genre, so the question of whether to write or not comes up a lot.
If you’re someone who sticks to one genre, like thrillers, the decision might feel easier. You’ve got a rhythm, an audience, and a clear path forward. But for those of us who dabble in different areas, it’s a bit more complicated.
Write It Down First
Here’s the thing: if you’ve got an idea, write it down. You don’t have to publish it, but there’s value in getting the story out of your head and onto the page.
Writing is a process of discovery. It’s good for your brain, your memory, and your creative problem solving abilities. Writing is incredibly rewarding and it doesn’t have to be for anyone other than you/.
For example, I’m planning to write a book about my meditation practice. It’s something I feel compelled to put into words regardless of whether anyone will ever read it.
Publishing Is a Different Question
Publishing, though—that’s a whole other ballgame. It’s not just about writing; it’s about investing time, money, and energy into getting your book out there.
The cost of publishing a book today on average ranges from USD$2,000 to $5,500, depending on whether you handle the publishing process yourself or hire someone to do it for you, and the cost of whatever services you use. Even if you do the publishing side yourself, you cannot avoid the expenses of editing, cover design, and marketing.
So should you publish? That depends. Are you prepared to invest knowing you might not make the money back? Or that it may take many years to do so. Publishing is a gamble, even with a great book. The market is tough, and luck plays a big role in whether your book finds its audience.
Marketing: The Long Game
If you do decide to publish, marketing is key. You don’t have to spend a fortune, but you do need to show up. Social media is a powerful tool, and consistency helps.
I’m not the most consistent marketer, but I stay visible. I talk about my books, share insights, and engage with readers. Over time, my books sell steadily, even if I’m not actively promoting them every day.
Why Are You Publishing?
Ultimately, the decision to publish comes down to your goals. Are you publishing for yourself, to hold a physical copy of your work? Or are you hoping to make money?
For me, some books are deeply personal. My Psychemagination Series, for example, is something I publish for myself. They’re niche, and I don’t expect them to be bestsellers. But holding those books in my hands is worth it to me.
If your goal is purely financial, be prepared for a challenge. Writing and publishing are creative pursuits, but making money from them often requires a separate skill set—marketing.
Final Thoughts
So, should you write that book? Absolutely. Writing is always worth it, whether it’s for personal growth, creative expression, or just the joy of storytelling.
Should you publish it though? That’s a question to answer after the book is written. Think about your goals, your budget, and your reasons for wanting to publish. If it’s important to you to have your book published, that’s reason enough.
This is just one of the topics I cover in my new writing book, Novel Writing Mastery: A Step by Step Guide from Conception to Publication. Get your copy now.
