Publishing a book is an exhilarating milestone—it's the culmination of months or even years of hard work, passion, and dedication. But alongside the excitement, there’s an often overlooked aspect that many authors don’t prepare for: the long stretches of waiting. The process is filled with anticipation, but also with patience. And let me tell you, learning to sit comfortably in that space has been one of the biggest adjustments I’ve had to make as an author.  

When I first embarked on the journey of publishing, I envisioned a more straightforward process—submissions, edits, and then, boom, the book was out in the world. Instead, I’ve discovered that publishing involves a series of waiting periods, each just as critical as the last. Currently, I have two publishers I work with, and I’ve come to accept that this wait is now a normal part of the process.  

First, there’s the waiting for the production schedule. Once a manuscript is accepted, one of the first steps is to get a timeline from the publisher. When will the book be scheduled for release? When will the covers be designed? It’s a waiting game, often without immediate updates, which can sometimes feel like a test of patience.  

Then, there’s the developmental editing phase. I find myself checking my email eagerly, hoping for feedback or suggestions that’ll shape the final version of my work. After that comes copy editing, which is meticulous and detailed—another stage that requires patience, as I wait for the editors to do their fine-tuning. Once those edits are complete, the wait continues for cover art, which is always exciting but also nerve-wracking, as I anticipate the visual representation of my book.  

I want to clarify that this isn’t a complaint. Instead, it’s a candid reflection on the realities of being a contemporary author. It’s also about adjusting my mindset and expectations, understanding that these waiting periods are an integral part of the process. I’ve learned to embrace patience, even when it’s difficult. I remind myself that each wait signifies progress—each step taking my book closer to reaching readers.  

I also realize that my tenacity and persistence may sometimes be perceived as high maintenance by others. But that’s a misconception I’ve grown to challenge. My perseverance is a vital part of my journey, and I believe it’s essential to advocate for my work and ensure its quality. However, I’m also mindful of not crossing the line into being overly demanding. It’s a balancing act—staying engaged and proactive without seeming impatient or high maintenance.  

Ultimately, this experience has been a lesson in resilience. While waiting can be frustrating, it’s also a testament to my commitment to my craft. Each stage represents progress, each delay offers an opportunity to refine and improve. So, I continue to wait patiently, knowing that the final reward—the publication of my story—will make all the patience worthwhile.  

In the end, being an author isn’t just about writing; it’s about embracing the entire journey—including those long, quiet periods of waiting. And rather than viewing them as obstacles, I choose to see them as necessary steps toward achieving my dreams.