Taking a Step Back

In 2018, I relocated to the enchanting city of Bologna with the goal of gaining new experiences, writing, and eventually publishing a book. To my surprise, I ended up publishing two books independently, despite having no prior knowledge of the publishing industry. During that year, I committed to writing regularly, sharing reflections and thoughts on my social media platforms. My intention was to narrate my life story. There was no concrete strategy at first, just a genuine desire to share and connect through my writing. Over time, my writing style evolved, and I discovered my passion for storytelling. Being a writer is not merely about monetary success; it is an identity and a means of self-expression.

Between 2018 and 2020, I traveled extensively across Europe, absorbing diverse experiences that fueled my writing. I came to a profound realization: everyone possesses a unique story worth sharing. Our current selves are shaped by our past experiences. I am sure you too have a narrative you'd like to express someday, and I'm here to guide you through the necessary steps to make this process seamless.

Why Opt for Independent Publishing?

The choice to self-publish rather than work with a traditional publisher was straightforward: I wanted access to a global distribution network like Amazon's without any upfront costs. For those unfamiliar, Amazon allows authors to publish directly through its Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) platform. This system enables you to publish and distribute your book without the need for a physical inventory. Initially, I mistakenly approached a printing company to produce a batch of books, but this led to several realizations:

1. I had 50 copies without a clear sales strategy, aside from a few acquaintances.
2. My living space was cluttered with unsold books, leading to frustration.

Mistakes can be valuable learning experiences; I embraced this one. By July 2020, I had compiled my stories, reflections, and thoughts into a book. After months of hard work, I was paying for my self-publishing efforts without seeing success. Does this mean I’m not a writer? Absolutely not. The essence of writing is the act itself—it's a form of therapy and self-discovery.

So, how did I finally start earning 500 euros a month?

After my initial setback, I sought a viable alternative to sell my book one copy at a time. This approach minimized financial risk since I would only earn when a copy sold. Enter Amazon KDP, a revelation I had been unaware of.

Amazon KDP simplifies the publishing process for aspiring authors. All you need to do is upload your book and cover, fill in the necessary details, and set a price.

Benefits of Publishing with Amazon KDP

The advantages of using Amazon KDP are numerous:

1. It's completely free to publish; Amazon only takes a small commission from each sale, allowing you to retain a 60% royalty.
2. Your book reaches a global audience.
3. You maintain copyright ownership.
4. Quick publication turnaround.
5. No need for inventory.
6. Your book is categorized for better visibility.

In September 2020, my book finally launched on Amazon, and I received my first sales. I was thrilled to be an independent author generating monthly royalties. Although my initial earnings were modest, I felt a deep sense of fulfillment. Through my social media efforts, I was able to sell copies consistently, allowing me to focus on my second book—a collection of poems and photographs.

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This video explores the journey of generating passive income through book sales on Amazon, offering valuable insights for aspiring authors.

Life took an unexpected turn when I published my second book, as I needed to prioritize my health in July 2021. This decision meant stepping back from promoting my work at a crucial time.

How did I manage to generate 500 euros?

In September 2023, after numerous medical challenges, I revisited my book, "Everything will be fine, I promise" (originally titled "Andrà tutto bene te lo giuro" in Italian). This phrase had become a mantra for me during tough times. I meticulously revamped the book's Amazon presentation page to enhance its visibility. I categorized it appropriately and selected strategic keywords to improve its ranking.

Over the following weeks, sales began to increase—1 a week, then 3, and eventually 10. To my astonishment, my book climbed to the top of the psychotherapy and self-esteem categories on Amazon. This outcome exceeded my expectations, and it reaffirmed the importance of hope and perseverance.

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This video analyzes a successful book on Amazon KDP that generates significant monthly income, providing inspiration and strategies for new authors.

And what’s next?

By the end of March, I received my first 500-euro royalty payment for January’s sales, and I am committed to increasing my earnings steadily. I also translated my book into English, albeit with modest expectations, as I handled the translation myself. My dream is to reach a global audience.

Conclusion

Each of us has a narrative; an experience that can transform into a book. Every project demands time and patience, often more than we anticipate. Acknowledge your capabilities, and relish the joy of the creative process.