A Two-Year Journey to Launch a Minimalist Personal Website: Reflection, Challenges, and Pride

Creating a simple, personal website can sometimes feel deceptively straightforward—but for me, it became a two-year endeavor filled with growth, experimentation, and perseverance. I’m excited to share this achievement with you, not because of its complexity, but because of the story behind it and the lessons learned along the way.

The Motivation Behind the Project

Despite possessing the necessary skills and a clear vision, I found myself delayed not by technical hurdles but by personal limitations. For years, I worked within corporate environments that championed “innovation,” yet often fell short when it came to meaningful execution. These experiences left me feeling frustrated and disillusioned.

So, I decided to build something solely for myself—a platform that authentically represents who I am and what I want to express. This site is a handcrafted, minimalist space designed for visibility and voice.

The Tech Behind the Simplicity

Rather than relying on heavy frameworks or complex systems, I opted for a lean, no-frills approach. The core of the website utilizes classic React.js, combined with Markdown for content management—nothing more. No CSS frameworks, no analytics tools, no cookies, and definitely no SEO shortcuts. This is a space free from trackers or intrusive scripts, focusing solely on presentation and personal expression.

Key Features & Creative Touches

Here’s a look at some of the unique elements integrated into this project:

• Custom Styled Markdown: Content is authored in Markdown, styled meticulously to match the site’s aesthetic.

• Procedural Backgrounds: Dynamic backgrounds generated through CPU-bound algorithms, with plans to transition this processing to WebGPU for enhanced performance.

• Theme Awareness: The site adapts to different themes (light/dark), though challenges remain in achieving perfect contrast and readability across all browsers, especially WebKit-based ones.

• Integrated PDF Viewer: Using pdf.js, I’ve embedded a PDF viewer. I’d love to hear tips on customizing styles seamlessly across platforms for a more cohesive look.

• Easter Egg & Humor: Hidden surprises and playful elements are sprinkled throughout. If you find them, I’d be delighted to know your thoughts—or even a roast or two.

• Post Structure: Content is organized as commit-like entries, with an eye toward possibly evolving into a lightweight CMS someday.

• Motion & Accessibility: The site uses ample motion effects, but