Notes on Building Personal Systems

Building a personal system (like this website) is an exercise in creating a digital habitat. It's not just about showcasing work; it's about building a space that reflects how you think and how you live.

The Habitat vs. The Brochure

Most personal websites feel like brochures: static, corporate, and impersonal. A habitat is different:

1. It's Alive: It changes as you change. It's not finished, but it is evolving.
2. It's Personal: It has quirks, layers, and hidden corners.
3. It's Archival: It holds memories, notes, and traces of past selves.

Design for Longevity

When building personal systems, I prefer:

• Simplicity: High-quality primitives that won't break.
• Atmosphere: A visual style that feels like home.
• Portability: Content that lives in plain text or standard databases.