There is no shortage of nerves when your publication date is pending. Every author has their own set of insecurities and they seem to come to a head the day they release their book into the world.

You may not be able to do away with doubt entirely, but maybe we can help you get over the hump and enjoy a day worthy of major celebration.

What if my book doesn’t sell?

Even for authors who are “only in it for the art” book sales tend to matter on some level. It is an indication of value. It is a quantitative metric in a very subjective industry. And let’s face it, who doesn’t dream of becoming a bestseller at least a little bit?

The cure: Decide on a value metric that isn’t sales-based and then get to work doing what you can to make sales happen.

There is so much pride to be had in releasing a book, don’t let something as common as money taint the satisfaction of accomplishing something so few have ever even tried.

And then, if you haven’t started already, figure out how you can promote yourself and drive book sales. It may not be something that you unlock overnight, but it is something authors can take some control of with the right marketing tactics and a little elbow grease.

What if I get bad book reviews.

You will get bad book reviews.

The cure: Accept it.

The world is full of critics, but you don’t have to put your attention there. Focus on the positive, learn from the negative. Onward!

There could be a typo!

Yes, even the most polished of books can be released with typos. And there will be grammar hounds out there just looking for the opportunity to pounce.

The cure: Work with your publisher to immediately update your digital version. Fix the print version on future print runs (if applicable). And give yourself permission to be human.

Even the greats have published masterpieces with typos. Don’t sweat the small stuff. If you have done your due diligence and worked with a skilled editor, then your work likely stands on its own even if a typo snuck its way in.

This book isn’t as good as I thought it would be on publication day.

There is no such thing as a perfect book. Some may love a work of art while others think it’s garbage. And most authors will go through some separation anxiety where they feel more could have been done or they would have added or removed something if given more time. It’s a totally natural reaction.

The cure: Reminding yourself that those who tinker hoping to get it “perfect” often never make it to publication day.

There is a point at which you have to say “Okay, it’s good enough, go out into the world!” Those who agonize over every word and can never say “done” don’t typically make it to the finish line. You’ve produced great work, now let it stand on its own two feet. You will find your readers.

I am not doing enough to promote my book and now there’s no time.

There is definitely a lot of value to be had in promotion that comes prior to your publication day. Driving preorders and building a platform are huge parts of a successful book launch. However, if you have not done this and your publication day is finally here, you’re not completely out of luck.

The cure: Get on it!

Though the excitement of your publication date is good momentum for promotion, it doesn’t mean marketing dies as soon as your book is released. Authors who are months or even years past their publication day can drum up new sales through social media ads, giveaways and contests, discounted sales and more. You can get training or higher professionals who are skilled at promoting a book even if it has been out for a while. So don’t assume all is lost and get out there and start promoting your work no matter how far beyond publication you are.

Becoming a published author has been compared to becoming a parent, and for good reason. Don’t let the fear of a new release keep you from enjoying a momentous occasion!