The Truth About Publishing: What Nobody Tells You (But You Deserve to Know)

Have you ever dreamed of seeing your name on the cover of a book?

It’s a powerful feeling — and for many of us, it starts with a whisper: What if I wrote my story? What if it helped someone else?

That whisper often grows louder, fueled by life experiences, journal entries, or a single memory we can’t shake. And then… it happens. You start writing. The words spill onto the page. You commit.

But here’s the part few people talk about: writing the book is only half the journey.

The other half? Publishing.

Let’s Get Honest About Publishing

Publishing has changed — dramatically. Gone are the days when only a few elite voices got to share their work. Today, you have choices:

• Traditional Publishing

• Hybrid Publishing

• Self-Publishing

And each one comes with its own learning curve, timeline, and investment.

Let’s bust a myth while we’re here:
Self-publishing is not “less than.”
It’s not a shortcut. It’s not second best. In fact, many bestselling authors have taken the self-publishing route because it offers something powerful — creative control and speed.

But… it also means you’re in charge of everything. The editing. The cover. The formatting. The marketing. The launch. Yes, it can feel overwhelming — but it can also be incredibly empowering when you have the right support.

My First Time Publishing

When I published my first book, You Are Allowed, I had no idea how emotional the process would be. It wasn’t just about uploading a manuscript to Amazon or waiting for sales to roll in. It was about stepping into the world as an author — raw, honest, and exposed.

And yet, it was the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done.

Because publishing is not just about selling books.
It’s about making your voice visible.

What You Need to Know Before You Publish

Whether you’re writing a memoir, a children’s book, or a novel — here’s what I want every aspiring author to know:

1. You don’t need permission to publish your story.
   You’re already allowed. (Yes, just like the title of my book.)

2. Professional editing matters.
   You need someone who believes in your story and will push you to make it better.

3. Your book cover is a promise.
   It’s the first thing people see. Make it count. Make it true to your story.

4. Launch with heart.
   Host a book party. Share your journey. Thank your people. Publishing is a celebration.

5. Your book is not the end. It’s a beginning.
   Once you publish, you’re in conversation with readers. You’re building a legacy.

Final Thoughts

Publishing is not a straight line — it’s a wild, beautiful dance between doubt and courage, vulnerability and victory.

You might be wondering: Is my story good enough?
Let me tell you — it’s not about being “good enough.”
It’s about being honest enough. Brave enough. You enough.

If you’ve been sitting on a story, wondering if it’s time — this is your sign.
And if you need support? I’m here. That’s what I do.
Let’s turn your story into something that lives long after the last page.

With Love and Light,
Odelia Elgarat
The Legacy Writing Guide