Why You Should Create a Personal Website in 2023

In recent times, the world of social media has experienced significant upheaval, urging many individuals to reconsider their relationship with these platforms. This shift has rekindled interest in personal blogs and personal websites. As the landscape of social media continues to evolve, now is the perfect time to invest in a personal website, regardless of your technical expertise.

The Importance of Ownership

One of the primary benefits of creating a personal website is ownership. Unlike social media platforms, where content can be lost or restricted, a personal website offers you complete control over your own content. With your own site, you craft your digital narrative and ensure that your work is preserved, independent of the whims of social media giants.

Your Digital Home

Your personal website acts as a digital home, a place to showcase your personality and interests. While platforms like Twitter and Instagram allow for sharing, they don't offer the same creative freedom as a well-designed personal website. It enables you to present your photos, stories, and ideas in a way that truly reflects your vision. For instance, you could post about a recent vacation, sharing both images and the narrative of your journey.

Flexible Design and Unlimited Possibilities

Creating a personal website means you dictate how it looks. Unlike predefined social media profiles, you can choose your design elements, layout, and content organization. This freedom is a canvas for creativity—whether you are documenting hobbies, starting a blog, or even turning the website into an online store.

Control Over Content and Recovery Options

Ownership comes with the added advantage of data security. When you upload photos or content to social media, you risk losing it if the platform experiences issues or shuts down. In contrast, with a personal website, you can back up your content. If your web host were to go down, you can simply switch to a new host without losing everything.

Getting Started

If you're convinced of the importance of having a personal website, here's a simplified step-by-step guide to get started:

  1. Choose a Platform: Select a platform that suits your needs. WordPress is highly recommended due to its open-source nature, allowing for better content ownership. Other options include Wix and Squarespace, but they may have limitations regarding content retrieval.

  2. Pick a Domain Name and Hosting: Purchase a domain name (usually under $20) and find a web hosting service (typically around $10 a month) from reliable providers like SiteGround or Pressable.

  3. Design Your Website: Choose a design that is functional and reflects your style. Many platforms offer customizable templates that are user-friendly.

  4. Add Content: Start populating your website with your writings, photos, and any other media you want to share. Utilize plugins for SEO, analytics, and contact forms to enhance your site’s functionality.

Conclusion

In 2023, creating your own personal website is more valuable than ever. It allows you to own your content, control your online presence, and express yourself freely. The process to set it up is straightforward, and the rewards are plentiful. I challenge you to consider building your own personal website and enjoy the creative freedom it offers.