It is every writer's dream to have a book published. In fact, nothing is probably more validating to a writer's ego than seeing his or her name on the cover of a book. But beyond merely massaging the ego, getting a book published is also a great way to earn money, particularly if you strike gold and end up with a bestseller.

However, going the traditional route in publishing is often a complicated, time-consuming process that doesn't work for everyone. Finding an agent, sending query letters, and the constant fear of rejection can be a little overwhelming for any writer who just wants to publish his or her book. The solution? Self-publish your own work.

There are obvious advantages to taking matters into your own hands. For starters, you get to retain absolute editorial control over your book. You get to release your book the way you originally intended it to be released. It's cheaper, too. Because you are basically doing everything on your own, you do away with agent and publisher fees and other overhead costs that are usually passed on to the final price of your book.

So how do you write and self-publish your own book? Begin by picking a topic or genre that you are deeply interested in or passionate about. It is easier to write if you have thorough background knowledge. Your book comes across as informed and authoritative if you are able to expound on your subject very well.

If you are writing about something unfamiliar, it is paramount that you conduct research. You want your work to be factual. Part of topnotch writing is accuracy, and you owe it to your readers to be accurate with what you are writing about.

After completing your manuscript, don't settle for the first draft. Key to quality writing is rereading your work and revising it if called for. Copyedit and proofread your work. Don't let any grammatical or factual error escape your eyes. Reread your manuscript two or three times if you have to. You can also choose to hire the services of a professional editor, which is advisable.

Once done with the content, pay particular attention to the design of your book. The cover is often the first thing your readers see, so it is important that you come up with an eye-catching or thought-provoking design that encapsulates what your book is about. You can design it yourself if you are a proficient graphic designer. Otherwise, have a design expert help you out with your vision.

Once you are done with your book, you can either make print copies or upload it as an ebook on sites like Amazon, and B&N. The important thing is to not stop once you've published your book. Remember that it is just as crucial to be persistent in marketing and promoting your book.

In most cases, success doesn't come overnight. But with hard work, determination, and consistency, success in writing and self-publishing your own book is something that can be achieved.