Why Knowing What You Want is the Secret to a Website Relationship That Actually Works
The questions you ask shape the results you get. When it comes to building your website, asking the right questions can make the difference between a confusing, stressful process and creating something that truly works for you. In this post, I’m sharing four powerful questions to help you get clear on what you want, so you can build a website that feels like home and serves your audience beautifully.
Unfortunately, no one knows what’s in your head but you.
Here’s the thing: building a website is so much harder when you don’t know what you want. It’s confusing, overwhelming, and, frankly, a waste of time, money, and energy.
I’ve seen it happen. People jump into the process thinking they’ll figure it out as they go, and then suddenly, they’re drowning in decisions, second-guessing every choice, and wondering why this whole thing feels so impossible.
That’s why I say: before you start, you need to know what you want.
Now, I get it. “Know what you want” can feel vague and intimidating. But don’t worry—I’m here to help. Let’s break it down.
4 Questions to Help You Figure Out What You Really Want
These questions aren’t just about your website. They’re about creating something that works for you—something that feels aligned with your vision, your audience, and your life.
1. What does a website mean to me?
Not every website serves the same purpose. So, what’s yours about? Is it:
A cozy place where you feel completely at home?
A convenience store with just the essentials for your audience?
A gallery to showcase your work?
Your book—a space to tell your story?
There’s no wrong answer, but you’ve got to be honest. What role do you want your website to play?
2. If it’s [your answer], what does that look like?
If your website is a home, what’s the vibe? Are we talking warm and rustic, like a cabin in the woods? Or sleek and elegant, like a modern masterpiece?
If it’s a convenience store, what do you stock? How often are you open? How easy is it for someone to grab what they need and leave happy?
This is where we get clear on both the feeling and the function.
3. What’s my capacity to create what I want?
Be honest with yourself here. Sometimes, what we dream of and what we can do right now don’t totally match—and that’s okay!
Maybe you dream of a handcrafted, shaker-style home, but all you have are your own two hands. Okay, let’s go for a charming cabin instead.
Maybe you can afford the plumbing and electrical work but need to hold off on interior design for now. No problem.
Knowing your capacity helps us work with what you’ve got and build something you’re proud of, without the stress.
4. What’s important for the people visiting my website?
This is a big one. Whether your website feels like a cozy cabin or a sleek gallery, it’s got to work for the people using it.
What do they need to feel welcomed and cared for?
What makes them want to stay and explore?
Think of it like hosting guests. Is it the warm fire in the living room? The stocked pantry? The intuitive flow that makes everything feel effortless?
Here’s the Catch: Only You Can Answer These Questions
I can help you explore these ideas and bring them to life, but I can’t answer them for you. Nobody can. This is your website—it has to reflect your vision, your goals, and your values.
But here’s the good news: You don’t have to figure it all out alone.
When we work together, I’m not just building a website for you—I’m your partner in dreaming up your digital home. I ask the right questions, help you sort through the options, and make the process feel simple and fun (yes, fun!).
And if you’re thinking, “This sounds amazing, but I still don’t know where to start,” I’ve got you. That’s exactly why I created Website Week.
Website Week is a space where I guide you through this process step by step. It’s all about helping you figure out what you want, getting you on the right track, and making sure you leave with a website that works for you.
The Bottom Line: Clarity Changes Everything
Taking the time to get clear on what you want is the best investment you can make in your website. It saves you from the frustration of backtracking, the stress of indecision, and the disappointment of ending up with something that doesn’t feel right.
When you know how to ask better questions and learn more about what you want, everything gets easier.