Are You Wasting Money as a Self-Published Author?

Many self-published authors dream of hitting six figures but stall out because they pour money into the wrong things. If you’ve been struggling with low royalties despite hard work, the problem isn’t always your writing, it’s often what you’re spending money on. Let’s break down the top 8 areas where indie authors waste money—and when spending can actually give you a positive ROI.

1. Should You Hire a Personal Assistant?

Hire a PA only when you have recurring tasks that must be done but cost you less to outsource than the income you could earn in the same time writing or running profitable Amazon ads. For example, if an assistant costs you $20/hour but you can make $100/hour by writing and publishing, the math makes sense. Otherwise, it’s a financial drain.

2. Do Teaser Images Really Sell Books?

Pretty graphics and teaser images are fun, but they don’t convert strangers into buyers. If you already have a loyal fanbase, these ima...

Every author wants to write books that readers devour in a single night. But why do some novels create super-fans, while others stall out after a few chapters?

The difference isn’t just talent or luck. It’s Reader Psychology, the heartbeat of the Reader Cloning System  we teach at Six Figure Author Career and Seven Figure Author Career.

Coined in 2016 by author coach Rebecca Hamilton, Reader Psychology explores the psychological and biological triggers that keep readers engaged. When you understand these triggers, your books stop being “just another read” and become addictive experiences.

What Is Reader Psychology?

There’s a major myth in the author world: that market research means chasing trends.

Too many writers look at what’s hot on TikTok, Amazon, or BookTok and try to copy it. Yes, this may make a little money in the short term, but it burns authors out. You end up constantly targeting new audiences instead of growing your own brand.

And the worst case? Authors pour money i...