This week was filled with a surplus of grumbling, especially in the evenings after work. My MacBook and I had a recurring “date.” Every night so far this week. My husband wisely steered clear.
The workload morphed me back to Middle School computer class, where I first learned how to use Microsoft Word. In 2026, the bones are still the same, just with a few more bells and whistles.
When taking on the task of self-publishing a book through Amazon, it feels a lot like applying all the things you learned back in computer class—with a gallon of fuel poured on top and someone hovering nearby with a lit match over everything you just built that now smells faintly of gasoline.
Which Word template should I use? Translation: What dimensions will my physical book have?
Which book cover template should I use? Translation: How can I make the size of the cover match the size of the actual book?
How do I make the headings and page numbers on Page 20 mirror those on Page 2? Translation: I need a Word crash course on headers and footers.
It’s not Amazon; it’s me.
A massive learning gap, paired with a multitude of user errors, is smeared all over this process.
I learned patience. That was baked in. But I also learned something else.
Self-publishing is not for the easily deterred, and my stubbornness is a weapon…of sorts. I don’t have any quit in me when it comes to doing something I believe in.
Helping customers troubleshoot a software glitch? ✅ Check!
Listening to a lengthy vent about a recent experience a friend had? ✅ Check!
Leading my daughter to the correct answer for her arithmetic problem? ✅ Check!
Late last night, well after my usual bedtime (when I knew I’d be feeling the lack of sleep in the wee hours of the morning), the publishing platform finally stopped screaming.
I’d done it.
I’d checked the boxes, aligned all the margins, and fulfilled the previously blank fields.
In instances like this, I don’t know how to say “no.” And that’s a good thing.
When faced with life’s challenges—when something you unashamedly believe in is on the other side—don’t let any size serving of difficulty dictate whether or not you continue.
I survived self-publishing. I learned so much. And I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything.
Whatever you’re facing, you’ll make it through, too. Don’t give in! 👊🏼
My new book, The Gabby Effect, will officially release on Amazon on April 8, 2026!
For updates and to subscribe to bonus content, check out TheGabbyEffect.com.
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Congratulations, Jess!! I’m so proud of you and look forward to reading the book.
I feel your pain! The good news for you is that you have the aptitude to figure out the technical jargon and confusion. I have several projects stuck. I am slowly working through it.
Congratulations to you! Can’t wait to read “The Gabby Effect.”