Your own personal website

Owning a corner of the internet gives you control. Over twenty years, I have seen platforms like MySpace vanish. I expect Twitter and Facebook to fade within a decade. A personal website lets you build something lasting. Here is why you should create one, how to start, and what to include.

Why It Matters

A personal website is your digital home. I built mine by gathering old tweets, blog posts, bookmarks, and forum threads. It now holds an archive from 2006 to today, showing how my interests and growth have changed. This control and stability are key reasons to have a site.

Other benefits include:

1. Show your skills to employers or clients.
2. Build a unique identity as a freelancer or professional.
3. Share your work, like writing or art, without platform limits.
4. Keep your content free from ad-driven platforms.
5. Stay independent from centralised services.

How to Begin

Creating a website is simpler than you think. Follow these steps:

Pick a Domain Name

Choose a name that reflects you. Use trusted endings like .com, .net, .org, or country codes, such as .is for Iceland.

Register the Domain

Buy your domain through a registrar or hosting provider, like Namecheap, Google Domains, Hetzner, or OVH. I use 1984.is, an Icelandic company focused on privacy. Research to find the best fit.

Build the Site

If you know git, use tools like Hugo for easy setup. Host for free or cheap with GitHub Pages, CloudFlare Pages, Netlify, or Vercel.

Non-technical users have great options:

• WordPress: Reliable and flexible.
• Squarespace: Simple with sleek designs.
• Bear Blog: Minimalist blogging.
• Ghost: Modern publishing.
• Substack: Ideal for newsletters.

What to Include

Your site can hold anything you choose. Try these ideas:

• Portfolio of your projects or creations.
• Blog on topics you know or enjoy.
• Short posts, like tweets, for quick thoughts.
• Contact details, like a digital business card.
• Links to inspiring articles or sites.

Start small. You do not need a big site at first.

Final Thoughts

A personal website offers control and a lasting presence, unlike short-lived social media. It is a place to share your work, track your growth, and stand out. Whether you are a creator or just want your own space, a website is worth building. Pick a domain, choose a platform, and start today.