How to Pace Your Marathon Race of Self-Publishing

When I hit mile 17, I almost quit running. My mind still longed to finish the nine miles left of my race, but my legs felt like they couldn't take a step farther. Months of training for my first marathon at age 41 had led to this single question: Can I keep going?

- CHRISTOPHER STOLLAR

Around that same time, I saw a stranger holding a sign. She had only written five words on cardboard, yet I will never forget them: Run the mile you're in.

I had no clue who this woman was or why she was cheering on thousands of other runners at the Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus Marathon in Ohio, but her words gave me the boost my body needed to reach mile 19, 20— and beyond.

As I reflect back on that moment during my first marathon about two years ago, I see so many connections between writing and running— especially when it comes to pacing. In fact, when new indie writers first get started with this race of selfpublishing, they often burn out because they view that challenge more like a sprint.

Some give up halfway to their word count. Others rush to publication without spending enough time in developmental editing. Even those who “finish” may move on to the next book before crafting a comprehensive marketing plan that will sustain their work for years to come.

As an award-winning indie author who has also trained for both a half and full marathon, I'm going to share some techniques I have learned to achieve consistent pacing on the page (and the pavement). This column will cover best practices for every step of the journey: writing, publishing, and marketing. No matter what mile you're in, you can finish your race.

TECHNIQUE 1: PACE YOURSELF WITH THE WRITING PROCESS

Most runners who begin sprinting at the start of a marathon will burn out within just a few miles. That may work for a 5K, but not 26.2 miles. Similarly, writers who regularly pull all-nighters won't be able to stick with their book for the long haul. That's why it's crucial for both athletes and authors to pace themselves with realistic milestones that help them achieve their end goal.