What is a “principles page”?
Most websites have an "about" page — a standard feature for introducing who you are. Many also have a "contact" page, and some include a "now" page that shares what you're currently focused on — the projects you're working on, interests you're pursuing, or goals you're aiming for at this moment.
A Principles Page project, however, is different. It's not about who you say you are, how to reach you, or what you're up to right now — it's about what you stand for. This page showcases the core values and beliefs in action that shape your decisions and behavior. It's your public declaration of the standards you've chosen to live by — a bold statement of integrity and a tool for nurturing accountability.
Why do I need a principles page?
If you're not feeling the value yet, perhaps check the project's manifesto — or maybe you don't need another page on your website at all. The choice is yours. If you don't have your own website, complete with an "about" page introducing you personally, or you think a "now" page is frivolous, this might not be for you right now. Creating a /principles page won't necessarily benefit you in a business sense. This isn't about marketing or attracting attention.
A Principles Page is useful for the same reasons an "about" or "now" page is beneficial: visitors to your site might not only want to know who you are or what you're doing, but also understand what you stand for. It's a potent reminder of your core values and commitments. By expressing openly the the guidelines you follow in life, you reinforce your alignment with these ideals. Plus, posting your principles might spark meaningful conversations and collaborations based on mutual appreciation and beliefs.
How do I make a principles page?
If you already have a website but no slash-principles page, simply add a new page and set the permalink or URL slug to /principles. On this page, jot down the core values, beliefs in action, or personal standards that guide your decisions and actions. Be honest and reflective — this is not an exercise in virtue signaling, but about conveying what you truly stand for. Once you're happy with your words, publish the page so others can witness it.
Keep It Brief but Meaningful: Your principles should be clear, but don’t confuse brevity with clarity. Sometimes, a more nuanced explanation is necessary to avoid misunderstanding. Allow these standards to evolve naturally, acknowledging the complexity of life.
Embrace Imperfection: Life is full of suprises and tensions. Unfinished or even contradictory principles are honest — they reflect the evolving nature of the human experience.
Practice Radical Transparency with Intentionality: Be transparent, but thoughtful about what you share. The goal is not external validation but the search for meaning. Choose what you reveal carefully, balancing openness with depth.
If you don't have a website but have been thinking about creating one, now's the perfect time. You can whip up a free website at BearBlog.dev, which offers a fast human-first blogging platform. You might want to snag your own domain name, point it to your new blog, and claim your own little patch of the web. Once your site and page are live, feel free to share it with me or others. Here is the link to my page: lev.lc/principles.
What is this site for?
This site serves as the home base for the Principles Page Project. Beyond hosting the project's "info", which explores the philosophy and purpose behind creating your /principles page, it aims to become a platform for examining values, personal rituals, radical introspection, and similar ideas through occasional blog posts and announcements.
Instead of creating a collection of links to individual pages of others, the focus here is on sharing insights, reflections, and discussions that delve deeper into living by your principles and maintaining personal integrity. I welcome your experience, especially regarding how creating your own "/principles page" has affected your personal and professional life. Your stories may get featured in future blog posts, providing practical guidance to others.
Feel free to reach out with any questions or suggestions — or simply say hello — using "levelsi at" this site's domain name as the email address or mention "@lev.lc" on Bluesky social.