The Amish might be onto something that many of us overlook. We often laugh at them, thinking we’re more advanced because of our education, technology, and fast-paced lifestyles. But let’s take a closer look.
Our education can be expensive and filled with things that might not really matter. We focus a lot on making things faster and more efficient, like faster cars to get to work, but does it make us truly happy?
Despite all our advancements, the rate of depression is going up.
We might have flashy technology and high-flying careers, but are we finding meaning in our lives? Are these things really filling our lives with meaning?
Many people often have an eye-opening moment on a backpacking trip or when they’re at the seaside on holiday. Without the distractions of phones and work, we feel peaceful and content.
We realize that life can be simpler than we think.
Our culture often tells us we need more to be happy, but getting that promotion or a new car doesn’t always bring lasting satisfaction.
The Amish live in a way that’s a bit like our backpacking trips or time at the seaside. They may not have fancy education or technology, but they focus on what really matters – honest work, a close-knit community, and simple joys.
Maybe, in their own way, they’ve found a recipe for a better life.
Our Default Is Set To Say ‘Yes’ to New Things
The Amish might be onto something good.
While many of us tend to say ‘yes’ to everything new, and always ‘yes’ to the latest technology, the Amish have a different approach. Their default is usually ‘no.’
They know exactly what’s important to them. When it comes to new technologies, they think about how these things will affect the values they care about.
They weigh the good things these devices bring against the problems they might cause. They carefully choose what fits their way of life, finding a balance between embracing helpful tools and keeping their close-knit communities strong.
They make sure that what they bring into their lives matters and doesn’t interfere with what they hold dear.
For example, they don’t allow cars because they believe it might make people go too far away from their community.
But they’re okay with using laptops and smartphones in certain work situations, just not at home.
Having internet and laptops at home can sometimes disrupt families because they might take away valuable time that could be spent together. When these devices are in the house, people might get absorbed in them, spending less time connecting with each other.
Instead of talking or doing activities together, family members might end up using laptops and smartphones individually.
Maybe we should all approach technology like the Amish, as Cal Newport suggests.
That doesn’t mean being anti-technology. The Amish are pro-technology, they’re just very selective when it comes to choosing which technology to adopt.
When a new technology pops up, the “community geek” gets permission from leaders to give it a try. Everyone pays close attention to see how it impacts the things they care about.
If the technology seems to create more problems than it solves, the community says no to it.
But if it looks okay, they might say yes, with some rules to make sure people use it in a way that brings out the good stuff and avoids the bad stuff.
An Example: Social Networks
Social media networks can impact people’s brains in various ways and vary among individuals. Here are some potential effects the Amish don’t need to worry about.
⇒ Addiction
Social media platforms are designed to be rewarding, likes, comments, and messages trigger the release of dopamine in the brain. This contributes to addictive behaviors. We can’t disconnect.
⇒ Self-Esteem
The constant feedback on social media can influence individuals’ self-esteem and sense of self-worth. Positive interactions can boost confidence, while negative interactions may lead to feelings of inadequacy and even low self-esteem.
⇒ Comparison
People often compare their lives to the curated versions presented on social media. This can result in feelings of envy, anxiety, or depression, as individuals may perceive others as more successful, attractive, or happy.
⇒ Shortened Attention Span
The constant stream of information on social media can contribute to a shortened attention span, affecting our ability to focus on tasks that require sustained attention.
⇒ Social Isolation
Paradoxically, excessive use of social media can contribute to social isolation. Despite being more connected online, face-to-face interactions declined.
As William James said, “The art of being wise, is the art of knowing what to overlook.”
In the same vein, here’s 1 Corinthians 10:23: “All things are permitted for me, but not all things are of benefit. All things are permitted for me, but I will not be mastered by anything.”
Questions to Ponder Upon
Could the seemingly uncomplicated way of life of the Amish be a recipe for true happiness?
Could simplicity in life lead to a more content and satisfying existence?
Do new technologies align with our core values, or do they often disrupt what we hold dear?
The Amish might not have all the things we consider markers of success, but they seem to have something many of us are still searching for.