Portfolio Website: Where do I start?

Since finishing my diploma two years ago I have intended to build myself a website showcasing my skills and projects. Have I completed it yet? Simple answer, no.

Why? Well I could write lots of excuses and research some psychology theories that back it up but it simply comes down to fear (for me at least). Your portfolio website is essentially representing you, your skills, flare and professional capabilities in code form. It's scary choosing the right style, typography and colours let alone layout and content. And let's not start on the imposter syndrome!

I have definitely been guilty of over complicating things as well. Getting carried away with database structures and complicated features. Not that I am not capable of these, but I have come to the realisation that at this stage less really is more. After doing lots of research of other developer portfolio websites I found that many reinvent their sites every so often. Your site can evolve along with your skills.

I'm really proud to say that I have finally finished my Miro wireframes and full design and have started the initial coding. I feel so much more confident now that I a comfortable with the style choices I have made. I can't wait to finish it and share it with you!

My takeaways are:

• Keep thing simple to start with
• Follow UX planes : surface, skeleton, structure, scope and strategy to help structure initial planning
• Do research of website styles you like and consider why. I find it helpful to write this down so I can attribute things.
• Don't be scared to be bold
• Get inspired - it's okay to be inspired by other people's style