about this website

Sep 18, 2024 • 3 min read

This website is my indoor digital garden.

The thought of having one’s own website, what a dreadful idea it has been for me. Since 2007, I’ve been trying. At first the lack of skills to make a functional website came in the way. I did acquire those skills pretty quickly. Then it was the inferiority complex. Imposter syndrome. Because I’ve been taught by the industry that the sole purpose of having a personal website is to have a product design portfolio. I seem invisible to other designers and hiring managers if I didn’t have a portfolio link to share with them.

I did have a couple of portfolio websites over the years while hunting for jobs. But as soon as I landed a job, I promptly brought the websites down. I think maybe it was because I felt like a sellout. The prevailing advice on how to write a case study, made my portfolio sound desperately perfect. As if the design process was flowing like a Pink Floyd song and all my users just threw their money at the products I was designing.

In reality though, my projects felt like roller coasters. Yes, I did follow some design process where I could, but none of my projects fit perfectly into the case study templates out there. I was trying to get people’s attention towards my skills so that I could be considered for a job. And possibly, earn a paycheck.

I knew that there is more to me as a person. I have more than some cookie cutter case studies to offer. Being a designer is just a part of who I am, what I do and what I want to be.

Why do I want to have a personal website? What might I do with it? Well for one thing I don’t ever want to say “I don’t have a website” again. Also to gather my meandering thoughts in one place as an exercise to have a clearer mind. To keep track of the books I read and any interesting stuff I come across on the internet. To write some recipes that I could share with my friends. Maybe have a page with some examples of my design work after all.

I’m starting to discover that writing helps me think better. It clears up the fog and structures my thoughts.

My inspiration

While looking for some inspiration and encouragement, these articles were godsend.

My website is an indoor garden. A place that I hope will give me joy. An opportunity to sow, tend to and grow some ideas.

Stack & tools

Thank you Esko, for introducing me to your own writing process and tools. It’s been awesome to learn from you.