The core purpose of my work as a publishing coach has always been to set the expectations on par with what really happens, not what people think happens. You don’t have to follow every step in my process, but if publishing your book is your dream, skipping these steps will hinder your opportunities for publication.

A pitch-ready book shines with possibility and is the best version you can make it be. As writers, we don’t have the ability to emotionally distance ourselves from our work to view it objectively.

We need people to approach our writing with a fresh perspective because it is the only way to know if the vision we are striving to achieve is actually working.

And while a professional editor will always be able to draw more from you and your writing, publishers and literary agents are not expecting that your manuscript has been professionally edited before they offer you a publishing deal.

What they are looking for is your willingness to self-edit, an openness to feedback, and a determination to improve your craft. An unpolished manuscript reveals far too much to a publisher or agent than you want it to.

In my experience, far too many writers skip these steps because of a fear of receiving feedback, or arrogance that their writing is better than it is. As harsh as it may sound, no writer is above feedback and editorial support. Every published author has always had help in shaping their stories.

Embracing your big book energy requires you to surrender to the process, remain humble, open and willing to do whatever it takes to make your story the best it can possible be.