One aspect of successful authors which stirs my curiosity is what was their path to publication like. I share my story with others who struggled for many years and hundreds of form rejections before publication. Of the few personal rejections I had most made little sense, though all were encouraging. One agent said my first chapter, synopsis, and cover letter all invited further interest but the story was not right for them at that time ... really? When, and what then does work? Slowly it became clear they wanted gold handed to them on a silver platter by someone well known--a guarantee of sorts. It did not matter if my story theme was solid and well mapped, my writing good--at publication level, my voice unique. No. None of that mattered.
I bought Mary a Kindle for our anniversary, knowing it would be a wonderful gift for her but not knowing she would read several stories from Karen McQuestion. I went to school with someone of that name but, no, this was not her. On her website, and through our e-mails, she spoke of troubles like mine and how she dived into the self-publication market and found success wildly beyond her expectations, which were quite reasonable; hoping the book sales would provide a dinner out every month. (She's done much better than that).
Talks with Karen decided for me to pursue self-publishing. My expectations are likewise set low. This is more of a bucket list item; a childhood dream to accomplish before I die, and I'm enjoying the process even during the frustrating times. Pursuing my childhood dreams has given me an adventurous interesting life, taking me places and giving experiences I never imagined. (Notice I didn't say exciting). If you haven't already, please, pursue one of your own dreams. Doing so may not take you where you expect but it should take you somewhere that will put a lasting smile on your face. Do it. Work at them. May you have good luck in accomplishing them. You don't want to leave this life unscarred, untried, without finding out who you are.