Breaking Free: The Power of Self-Publishing in the Digital Age
I chose self-publishing for multiple reasons, but one of the main reasons I have decided to self-publish my book(s) is that I wanted control over my story and how it would be used.
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I am officially done with editing, uploading, and publishing the Audiobook version of Workplace NeuroDiversity Rising as of this morning (as far as I know). There is still a chance Amazon (with its "extended delay" and no ETA) will reject the audiobook and bump it back to me, requiring me to make some additional changes. Still, the other retailers (so far) have accepted the book (mostly) without issue.
Self-publishing my first paperback, ebook, and audiobook was a much more significant undertaking than I initially imagined it would be. It's been a lot of work and a lot of stress (without a lot of support). However, if you allowed me to do it all over again, despite the struggles, I would still choose self-publishing (and I AM choosing self-publishing again for my future works).
I chose self-publishing for multiple reasons, but one of the main reasons I have decided to self-publish my book(s) is that I wanted control over my story and how it would be used (because I know that a publisher's number one goal would be to sell more books - because that's capitalism) and I don't want my books used in a way to promote organizations (like Autism Speaks and NCSA) and ideas (like ABA, PBS, and other forms of NeuroDivergent Conversion Therapy).
Sure, a publisher might help me secure interviews, book signings, and other events to help promote my book (so I can sell WAY more copies and make more money), but this story is worth more than money to me.
My book is my story. It's my life. I can't imagine selling my story (and the rights to my life) to strangers.