As we dive into 2025, it's time to challenge everything we think we know about self-publishing. After a decade in the industry and helping over 1,000 authors bring their visions to life, I've discovered that true self-publishing goes far beyond simply producing a book—it's about publishing a new version of yourself.
When most people think about self-publishing, they focus solely on the end product: a physical book they can hold in their hands. But here's the truth I've learned from turning one book into a seven-figure business: the real power of self-publishing lies in who you become through the process.
Think about the last time you accomplished a major goal. By the time you reached that finish line, you were a different person than when you started. That's exactly what happens in the self-publishing journey. You can never go back to the version of yourself that existed before you started—and that's the point.
In the Published and Paid® Mastermind, we have a saying: "It's not about writing the book, it's about who you become in the process." This isn't just a catchy phrase; it's the fundamental truth that separates successful authors from those who struggle to make an impact.
Let me be honest: having a book isn't impressive anymore. I recently spoke with an author who had written six books but generated less than $1,000 in sales. This illustrates a crucial point: success isn't about how many books you write—it's about the impact you make and the business you build.
True thought leadership is about leading with your thoughts in a way that transforms others. When you write a well-constructed book that positions you as an industry leader, you're not just sharing information—you're documenting a vision that others can run with.
Self-publishing means publishing yourself—publishing the next version of you. It means:
Every time we host a live workshop, plan an event, or welcome a new client into the Published and Paid® Mastermind, I witness this transformation firsthand. Not just in our clients, but in myself as well. That's the beauty of true self-publishing—it's a journey of constant evolution.
Remember: your book is not the end goal. It's a powerful tool in your journey of becoming. The question isn't just "What book will you write?" but rather "Who will you become in the process?"
Are you ready to redefine what self-publishing means for you?
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