93% of Indie Authors Are Happy They Self-Published: Here’s Why You Might Be Too

Self-publishing has come a long way. Once viewed as a last resort, it’s now a bold, empowering move embraced by thousands of successful writers. In fact, a recent study shows that 93% of indie authors are happy they self-published and their reasons go far beyond just royalties.

So why are so many writers choosing the indie path? More importantly, could it be the right choice for you, too? Let’s examine the main factors that contribute to authors’ satisfaction with self-publishing and how you can gain from it as well.

📈 The Numbers Tell a Clear Story

Let’s look at the data first before we get into the why. A full survey by the Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLi) found that:

• 93% of indie authors are happy they self-published
• Many attribute their satisfaction to creative control, faster publishing, and better income
• A growing number are even making a full-time living through self-publishing

It’s clear that this isn’t a small group anymore. Indie publishing is a thriving, respected community that gives writers more than just freedom; it gives them results.

✍️ Why Indie Authors Are Happy They Self-Published

Let’s examine the main causes of the deep satisfaction and show you how to take advantage of each one..

1. Creative Control Without Compromise

One of the biggest advantages of going indie is the ability to make your own creative decisions. Unlike traditional publishing, where editors and marketing teams often dictate changes, self-published authors stay in charge.

You decide:

• Your book’s cover and title
• Your pricing and launch strategy
• Whether to write a series or a standalone
• When and how your book releases

➡️ Tip: Indie authors often publish passion projects that wouldn’t “fit” in the traditional market but find loyal audiences anyway. That freedom leads to more personal satisfaction and stronger reader connections.

2. Higher Royalties Mean Better Income Potential

Another major reason indie authors are happy they self-published is the financial upside. Traditional authors usually earn 5–15% on print books and 25% on ebooks, while Amazon KDP allows indies to keep up to 70% of ebook royalties.

💡 Imagine earning $7 on a $10 ebook instead of just $1–$2, that’s a game-changer.

➡️ Tip: Keep your production costs low and your marketing consistent to maximize your earnings per book.

3. Faster Time to Market

Waiting for agents, editors, and publisher approvals can take years. But indie authors often go from manuscript to published book in a matter of weeks or months.

This speed means:

• Faster feedback from readers
• Quicker opportunities to build your backlist
• The ability to pivot and adapt in real time

➡️ Tip: Use beta readers and professional editors to maintain quality while still moving quickly. Many indie authors find the balance between speed and polish through streamlined workflows.

4. A Direct Connection With Readers

Indie authors build their audiences through email lists, websites, and social media, which is different from traditional publishing, which often takes marketing out of the author’s hands.

This personal link leads to:

• Loyal fans who buy every release
• Feedback and ideas in real time
• A stronger sense of purpose and happiness

And yes, this direct line to readers is one of the reasons indie authors are happy they self-published, they don’t just sell books, they build communities.

➡️ Tip: Start building your list early, even before you publish. Offer a free short story or sample chapter in exchange for an email address.

Platforms like ConvertKit and MailerLite are great for managing email lists and nurturing reader relationships.

5. Multiple Income Streams

Indie publishing isn’t limited to ebooks. A lot of successful writers make money in different ways, like:

• Audiobooks through sites like Findaway Voices and ACX.
• Print-on-demand paperbacks and hardcovers
• Direct sales via Gumroad, Payhip, or personal websites
• Special editions, merch, and bonus content

➡️ Tip: Don’t depend on just one format. Use your content in different ways to get more readers and make more money.

🔄 The Emotional Payoff

Many indie authors say they are deeply emotionally satisfied, in addition to having money and power. They feel

• Free to tell the stories they want
• Proud to have built something from scratch
• Connected with readers who really value their work

Indie authors are happy they self-published because it made writing something important to them and good for their careers.

🧠 Final Thoughts: Is Indie Publishing Right for You?

Self-publishing has its problems, but the benefits are clear. You’ll have to spend time learning both the craft and the business of publishing, but you’ll also get more freedom, speed, and even more money. Self-publishing isn’t without its challenges, but the rewards are clear. You’ll need to invest time into learning the craft and business sides of publishing but you’ll also gain freedom, speed, and potentially higher income.

If you value:

• Creative freedom
• Control over your career
• Closer relationships with readers
• Ownership of your work

Then you might find yourself among the 93% of authors who say:

 “Yes, I’m glad I self-published.”

📢 Ready to Explore Indie Publishing?

If you’re considering the leap, start by getting informed. Visit WriteStats.com for:

• Data-driven author insights
• Writing tools built for indie authors
• Publishing guides and success strategies

Because chances are, you’ll soon be saying what so many others have:

Indie authors are happy they self-published and you might be too.