A few years ago, I fell out of love with building for the web. I still did it but it felt like a constant struggle to keep up with the ever-evolving technologies and complex frameworks. I always felt behind, and the process of creating something online became slow and cumbersome. However, in the last few months, I have turned a corner and rediscovered my joy in making things on the web. Here’s how it happened.
Not Caring About What Others Think
One of the biggest changes that helped me enjoy building for the web again was letting go of what others thought. Instead of chasing technology that is considered “cool” or trendy, I now focus on using things that I genuinely enjoy working with. This shift in mindset has allowed me to embrace my own preferences and build things according to my own style.
That doesn’t mean I don’t learn new things, but I only do this when I need to. If I have a tool that does a job well then there’s no reason to change it.
Embracing Simplicity
Another key factor is embracing simplicity. Rather than overcomplicating things with unnecessary tools or frameworks, I now stick to what I know best: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. By keeping things straightforward and avoiding unnecessary complexities, I can focus on building things.
Leveraging AI Tools
Surprisingly enough, one unconventional approach that has greatly contributed to my enjoyment of building for the web again is incorporating AI into my workflow. Specifically, two tools have been helpful: Github Copilot and OpenAI ChatGPT.
With Github Copilot at hand, I can write and test code much more quickly. It assists me by suggesting code snippets or even providing complete solutions based on contextual information about what I’m working on. It really does feel like magic!
OpenAI ChatGPT is another powerful tool that helps me write simple scripts or even draft blog posts like this one! Having an AI-powered writing assistant allows me to maintain momentum without getting stuck in endless Googling or seeking help on social media platforms.
It’s important to note that while AI can offer valuable assistance, the output it provides should not be considered final. It serves as a stepping stone to keep me moving forward and maintain my creative flow.
Learning to enjoy building for the web again has been a transformative experience. By prioritizing my own preferences, embracing simplicity, and leveraging AI tools like Github Copilot and ChatGPT, I have found a renewed sense of joy in the process.
Building with AI is not about replacing human creativity but enhancing it. These tools help me stay productive, overcome obstacles more efficiently, and ultimately bring my ideas to life faster.
Let me know what you think on Mastodon, or BlueSky (or Twitter X if you must).
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