It doesn’t seem like that long ago that self-publishing was dismissed as a last resort for writers who couldn’t land a traditional book deal.

Back in the day, it was called vanity publishing, which thinking about it, kind of mocked anyone who thought that they could write and publish their own books without going through a publisher. For some, it was the publishing world’s attempt at gatekeeping their industry.

These days, of course, things are a lot different.

Today, self-publishing isn’t just an alternative to flogging yourself to death as you hold out for a ‘proper’ publishing deal. Nope. Not at all. In fact, self-publishing in many cases is the quicker and smarter route for authors who want a bit more control over their careers.

There are millions of would-be authors out there who wonder whether now is the right time to self-publish.

I’ve been in this game for over 15 years and I firmly believe that there is no better time to self-publish . And here’s why:

1. You keep control

When you get a traditional book deal, you have little control over the book’s finances. Not only that, but all control that you’d potentially have over your book’s title, cover, pricing, and marketing often disappears the moment you sign a contract. What started out as your pet project suddenly takes on a different angle when everyone starts tugging at it.

But when you self-publish, you are in charge. In fact, it’s your own little business. You decide when to launch, what your brand looks like, and how to connect with your readers.

Want to change your cover to boost sales? Do it.

Want to test different prices? No problem.

In self-publishing, creative and business decisions stay where they belong – and that’s with you.

2. Faster time to market

Traditional publishing can take years from signing to publication, and that’s even if you get a book deal. That’s years of waiting, editing, pitching, revising and then waiting some more.

With self-publishing, you can cut years off your waiting time. As soon as your book’s ready, you can publish it. And in a fast-moving world, that’s an epic superpower to have up your sleeve. Why wouldn’t you want that? One of my bestselling books was written (on a beach in Greece) and published within two weeks. It went on to become the #1 book in its category for over three and a half years.

3. Higher royalties

Most traditional publishers offer authors 10–15% royalties (and that’s after your agent takes their cut). In contrast, Amazon KDP pays up to 70% royalties, and platforms like Kobo, Apple Books, and even direct sales offer similar or better. There are well-documented cases of indie authors posting seven-figure sales, either through Amazon or through their own direct channels.

4. Direct access to your audience

I’m a big fan of drag racing and apart from the spectacle of two cars going 340mph+ in less than four seconds (from a standing start) is the fact that fans get to mingle with the pits and the drivers.

One of the most powerful advantages of self-publishing is the ability to build, own, and engage with your audience in the same kind of way. Through email lists, BookFunnel giveaways, and reader magnets, indie authors can connect directly with readers.

Middlemen who want a cut of your earnings are not required. This relationship is gold. It means you can build long-term fans, launch future books to a built-in audience, and even generate recurring income through subscriptions, direct sales, or Patreon.

5. The tools have never been better

Even five to ten years ago, the rigmarole of self-publishing was like pulling teeth. Today’s tech makes it easier than ever to publish professionally. With tools like Atticus for formatting, Canva for DIY design (I use both), and marketplaces like Reedsy for hiring editors, you can produce a book that looks every bit as polished as something from Penguin or HarperCollins. Platforms like Amazon KDP, Draft2Digital, and IngramSpark simplify distribution, letting you sell globally from your laptop. You never even have to leave your house! Perfect for introverts!

6. The market is hungry for indie voices

Readers are more open than ever to indie authors. In fact, many prefer the variety, innovation, and niche genres that self-publishing brings. From cosy mysteries and spicy romance to niche nonfiction, indie authors are serving up exactly what readers want. They are doing this faster and with more creativity than big publishers can keep up with. It’s guerrilla marketing at its finest.

So what are you waiting for?

I understand that it’s often easier said than done.

But here’s a fact: self-publishing isn’t a backup plan anymore.

For many, it’s the main plan for writers who want to treat their writing like a real business.

If you’ve got a story to tell, the tools, readers, and opportunities are already here.

The only thing missing is your book.

Don’t wait for permission.

Don’t wait for that ‘someday.’

Don’t wait for until you’re ready.

You’ll never be ready.

Have a productive rest of your week.

Patric