The Dark Path of the Web Design Elite: A Journey Through Narcissism and Redemption

Have you ever wondered what it's like to be a real jerk, the kind of person who can own their moments of sassiness, and thrive in niche markets? If so, then you've stumbled upon a unique tale of a skilled web designer who navigated the early days of the internet from elite status to wisdom through the years.

Introduction to the Narcissist’s Path

“I don’t know you tell us…”

Well, some of what you'll read here just might be a nod to the narcissistic side of me, presenting itself in a moment of reflection. Let me assure you, I choose to be a jerk or act snooty, often depending on the situation or the people around me. For the most part, I remain quiet, listening and gathering information, or simply disinterested. This doesn't mean I'm oblivious, it's just something I do.

King of the Wild West: The Early Web Design Boom

“LOL. Sometimes it’s great owning the fact that you can be a real asshole whenever needed.”

Life in the early 1990s, when web design was a niche market, is like stepping back in time to the Wild West. There were less than 20 people on the planet who knew how to build and deploy websites. This was a dream come true for me. I was one of the elites, the go-to for top-tier corporations and individuals. I was like the sheriff, the stagecoach robber, and the owner of the stagecoach carrying the gold of the internet.

Asking for a website? You needed me. No other options existed. My market was so tight that I could charge whatever I wanted, and you had no choice but to pay. I never had a price list; I always determined my fees before initial meetings. Decent cars? You might get away with a $500 invoice. Shoddy cars? Prepare to pay a large sum, often $3,000 for a two-page website. I did dozens of websites for major corporations at a minimum of $50,000 each.

Charges and Triumphs: Maximizing Distinct Niche

“After the first couple of years, other people started to encroach on my space. They were taking money out of my pocket, so I had to fuck them. I knew I could put a few out of business.”

Other up-and-coming web designers began to pose a threat. However, this only fueled my motivations to trash their reputations and emerge as the undisputed king. In those golden years, I amassed a fortune. I walked into a showroom and bought a Range Rover with cash. I had a 32-inch TV in the early 1990s, a significant achievement back then. I dressed in designer clothes and wore a flashy Rolex.

In my mind, I believed I was better than most, a belief that many have, especially in a unique and dominant market. I was a douchebag then, and I might have thought I was better than you. We were living in a Wild West of the internet, where the best could charge top dollar for their services.

Dot Com Boom and Decline: Indecision and Redemption

“During the dot com boom, there were literally hundreds of web designers in every country on the planet. Some had a few thousand people doing it full time. I couldn't trash them all. I couldn't compete any more.”

As the dot com boom surged and hundreds of web designers entered the market, my unique niche started to face competition. I couldn't trash them all, and continued dominance was no longer possible. However, I remained a go-to guy due to my client list and reputation. The days of charging $50,000 for a 10-page static site were over; now, I was competing for a much lower rate, which was still significant, albeit a fraction of my earlier earnings.

“In the early days, I was earning high six figures a year. Now, I am in the high fives. I grew up a lot in the last 25 years. I am earning a fraction of the money but, I am considerably happier. I teach web design, and I do pro-bono work for charities.”

I gradually changed my mindset and lifestyle. Growing from a narcissistic, confident jerk to a much better person was part of this transformation. I now teach web design and do pro bono work for charities. I genuinely believe I am a better person today than I was 25 years ago. The chase for monetary success has been replaced by a desire to mentor and give back, making me a happier and more fulfilled individual.

Conclusion: A Path of Reflection and Change

“I am not a douchebag anymore.”

The journey from a king of the internet to an ordinary individual represents not just a change in occupation but a deeper realization of one's self-worth and happiness. It's a tale of growth, redemption, and the realization that true success lies not just in financial achievement but also in personal and professional satisfaction.