If you want something done specifically, do it by yourself.

Everyone knows the quote "If you want something done right, do it yourself," but in an interview with UNT Press Director Ronald Chrisman, I learned that if you want something done specifically, that too, you have to do yourself.

It's pretty much inferred that publishers are not going to be the biggest advocates for self-publishing. It seems to undermine and counter their very purpose, obviously. But Chrisman doesn't see it that way.

Chrisman believes in self-publishing for authors with specific purpose, specific meaning, and with a very specific goal in mind.

There is absolutely no sense in using your time and energy to shop publishers in regards to a book about your mother's side of the family, unless of course, your mother is Mother Teresa. That could spark some interest.

What's important to keep in mind is that, unless you are shopping the next big thing, keep it small. Work hard on it but do it yourself. It's easier and will still manage to advocate your point to your intended audience and will probably do so much quicker than going through a publisher.

Big time publishing isn't for everyone, and for those with specific intentions, there's no shame in doing it yourself.