Cailin Riley Books

The most common thread I see in posts across the various author and writer Facebook groups I’m a part of is fear of failure.

Many worry about the choice between querying agents or going directly to self-publishing and which will lead to success. Others worry that they are editing, writing or designing things wrong and that their mistakes will add up to no sales. I’ve even seen posts from writers that have completed entire books but they are so scared of failure that their books just sit on their laptops for ages.

I hate to see it, but I understand it. Because I worry about failing all the time too.

I’ve never been too concerned about the making money aspect of being an author. I have a full-time job and I’ve always known that my chances of striking it rich as an author are slim to none. But what truly scares me is the idea of putting something that I worked so hard on out into the world, and then nobody cares. That’s scary.

So what got me to release those fears and get two books out into the world?

Honestly, a greater fear: That I would feel unfulfilled because I was too scared to take a risk and put those parts of me out there.

Creative works always contain a small part of our hearts and minds. That’s why it’s really hard to see somebody mark up your draft or give you a bad review. It can, in many ways, seem like a personal attack, even though it usually isn’t.

There is always going to be a risk that somebody won’t like your book. But on the flip side, there is a possibility that people will love your book. By sharing your story or words, you might help someone feel understood or less alone. You might inspire someone to try something new or even give writing and publishing themselves a chance.

I don’t think I’ll ever not be scared to publish, or release the fear of failing. But I was able to jump the hurdle and do it anyway because I never want to let my fears stifle the sense of fulfillment I get by putting my work into the hands of others. And I feel more empowered whenever I do get a good review or hear postive encouragement from readers and friends.

If you’re nervous about publishing or telling people about your book, I would encourage you to take small steps to increase your level of comfortability with self-promotion. Here are a few ways to do that:

• Tell at least 1-2 people in your life about your book and answer their questions. (They will have some, trust!)
• When people ask about what you write, tell them. Don’t be afraid to explain.
• Do your best to create a quality product. The better you feel about your book, the more confident you will feel when it’s time to market.