Building for the Independent Web
Why I chose to create my own space online
In a world dominated by algorithmic feeds and corporate-controlled platforms, there's something deeply satisfying about carving out your own corner of the internet. This blog represents more than just a place to share thoughts—it's a statement about digital ownership and authentic connection.
The Problem with Platforms
Social media platforms have trained us to think in soundbites. Twitter's character limits, Instagram's focus on visual perfection, and LinkedIn's professional posturing all shape how we communicate. But what happens to nuanced thought? What about the messy, incomplete ideas that need space to breathe and develop?
When we publish on these platforms, we're essentially digital sharecroppers—building value on land we don't own, subject to algorithm changes, policy shifts, and the whims of corporate priorities.
Owning Your Content
The IndieWeb movement offers an alternative. By publishing on your own domain, you maintain control over:
- Your content's longevity - no platform shutdowns can erase your work
- How it's presented - no forced algorithmic feeds or engagement-driven layouts
- Who can access it - RSS feeds and direct links, not platform-mediated discovery
- Your data - complete ownership of analytics, comments, and reader interactions
The Joy of Slow Communication
There's something liberating about writing without the pressure of immediate engagement metrics. No like counts, no retweet anxiety, no algorithmic performance anxiety. Just thoughts, carefully considered and presented at their own pace.
This doesn't mean isolation. The IndieWeb includes powerful tools for connection:
- Webmentions let sites communicate with each other
- RSS feeds enable subscription without surveillance
- Microformats make content machine-readable while staying human-friendly
Building Thoughtfully
Creating this blog template has been an exercise in intentional design. Every feature serves a purpose:
- Accessibility first - because the web should be for everyone
- Privacy by default - no tracking, no data harvesting
- Performance focused - fast loading, minimal JavaScript
- Standards compliant - built to last, not to impress
The Network Effect of Independence
When more people own their online presence, the entire web becomes more resilient. We create a distributed network of authentic voices, each contributing to a richer, more diverse digital ecosystem.
It's not about rejecting all social platforms—it's about having a home base that you control, a canonical source for your thoughts and work.
Getting Started
If you're reading this and feeling inspired to start your own independent web presence, here are some first steps:
- Choose a domain - your name, a project, or a concept you care about
- Pick your tools - static site generators like Eleventy make this easier than ever
- Start writing - don't wait for the perfect setup, begin with what you have
- Connect gradually - add webmentions, RSS, and other IndieWeb features over time
The independent web isn't just about technology—it's about reclaiming agency in our digital lives. Every blog post, every personal website, every choice to publish independently is a small act of resistance against the homogenization of online discourse.
Welcome to the independent web. The water's fine. 🌊
About Your Name
Your author bio goes here. Describe yourself and what you write about.
About Your Name
I'm passionate about thoughtful writing, meaningful connections, and building a more human web. This is my corner of the internet where I share ideas, experiences, and discoveries.
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