What are the benefits of publishing a book?
Publishing a book is hard work, very likely over a long period, so it’s helpful to know what the benefits and rewards are when you embark on the process. (And you might need reminding of these when you are in the middle of a redraft or contemplating the launch of your words into the world with some trepidation.)
There’s a great deal of personal satisfaction in seeing your book as a finished product. Writing a book is on many people’s bucket list and fulfilling the dream can be as affirming as other big life achievements such as graduation.
If you loved creative writing or studying literature at school, but your subsequent career has left little room for these early passions, it can be reinvigorating to engage with the world of books again. Writing opens the door to all kinds of possibilities and could be considered a gym for both your imagination and your analytical side. You’ll also need to exercise compassion in considering the perspective of your characters and your reader. All excellent for personal development and wellbeing – as well the sense of mastery, confidence and purpose writing and publishing a book can bring.
Publishing a book can open the door to unexpected opportunity. You may have never thought you’d speak on a radio show about a topic in your book, find a friend in the book blogging community or attend a social event for authors; your book made it possible. The new skills you will learn in writing and publishing a book can even make you more employable – both in your existing day job and potentially in fulfilling a portfolio of literature-related roles. Publishing a book can show you the wide range of jobs related to books: from blogging to literacy charities and literature development agencies.
Writing a book adds authority in your field. For non-fiction writers, a book is tangible proof of your expertise and can be an excellent calling card when needed. For novelists, your expertise in writing and publishing a book is also in demand and you could become the go-to speaker on the themes of your book.
Writing and publishing a book brings you into conversation with readers, writers and publishing industry professionals. This active engagement with the world can be extremely rewarding. One of the things I most enjoy about my books being out in the world is the people they introduce me to.
Even writing groups can be an immense source of joy for many – sharing a goal with other writers can be an excellent way to combat loneliness, and discussing the themes and purpose of your work means conversations will quickly have depth as you share the things that matter to you and what moves you to write.
A secret benefit of writing and publishing a book? This impressive goal can get you out of a lot of housework and social engagements you may not have been too keen on!
If writing and publishing a book has been a life-long goal, fulfilling this goal can actually free you up to pursue a different ambition, especially once you’ve proven you can achieve this one.
Even if your books bring in only a modest income, over time this will of course add up. A book is an ongoing asset and you can keep working on ways to exploit this with e.g. more formats; paid journalism, teaching or speaking opportunities linked to the book; more sales routes; and increased marketing expertise and opportunity – as well as using the knowledge gained in writing and publishing one book to write and publish another, even better book.
Did I miss any of the rewards of writing and publishing a book? Drop me an email to let me know and I will add your thoughts and experiences.
Claire Wingfield offers support with all aspects of writing and publishing your book, including editorial support and literary mentorships, to keep you on track with your writing goals. One-to-one consultations also available, to discuss any aspect of your writing life – from plotting your novel to protecting your writing time.
