It all started back in 2016 when I was handling an SEO project for a client. He handed me his WordPress admin credentials and said, “Make changes on the website as per your requirements using these credentials.” I was stunned. I had never seen the WordPress dashboard before and was totally confused. At first, I thought about getting help from a WordPress web designer, but then my curiosity kicked in.
I decided to explore WordPress on my own. After some initial struggles, I found a way to learn and started making changes myself. The interface was so user-friendly that within a month, I understood most of WordPress. I loved logging in and seeing the message on the dashboard: “Howdy, Hitendra.” It felt like WordPress was welcoming me personally.
Falling in Love with WordPress
As I became more comfortable, I wondered, “How complex can it be to develop a website using WordPress?” Being the over-curious person I am, I took a day off from the office, telling them I was sick, and rushed home. I fired up Google and searched, “How to develop a website using WordPress.” I found answers and read several blogs about setting up WordPress on localhost and more.
WordPress was so accommodating. It never bothered me; it always helped me. Our friendship began, and soon I fell in love with WordPress. One day, I thought about creating a live website. But what would it be about? WordPress seemed to whisper, “Start your blog with me.” So, I did. My first website was a news portal featuring blog posts and guest posts about my city, Dungarpur.
Embracing the WordPress Community
My days started and ended with WordPress. I’d go to sleep after clicking the logout button of wp-admin, and my day would start with “Howdy, Hitendra.” I am so thankful to the people who made it possible for someone like me to design my own website.
But I didn’t stop there. I wanted to be part of the community that had given me so much. I began attending WordPress meetups, and eventually, I had the opportunity to speak at one. Sharing my experiences and learning from others was incredible. The community was welcoming and supportive, and I felt right at home.
I also became part of do_action India, a charity hackathon that uses WordPress to make a difference. Contributing to meaningful projects and collaborating with passionate people was a rewarding experience. It deepened my love for WordPress and its community even more.
Looking Ahead
Now, my curiosity drives me to learn how the WordPress core is designed and how I can contribute to making it more secure and user-friendly. I want to help others on their journey, just as the community has helped me on mine.
Conclusion
My journey with WordPress has been an amazing adventure filled with learning, growth, and a whole lot of love. From handling that first SEO project to becoming an active member of the community, WordPress has been more than just a tool—it’s been a companion.
I’m grateful to everyone in the WordPress community for embracing me and fueling my passion. I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me next. Thank you, WordPress, for being such an integral part of my life.