Digital Detox: 7 Ways the Amish Harness Tech – for More Peace and a Happier Life

What if the secret to a calmer, more connected life isn’t in the next app—but in putting the phone down altogether?

While the rest of the world races to keep up with the latest digital tools, the Amish live differently. They don’t completely reject technology—rather, they slow down and choose carefully.

Instead of letting every new invention into their lives, Amish communities pause, evaluate, and ask a simple question: Will this help us, or harm us?

When we say they harness technology, it has two meanings – they control and restrict it to a degree – while still putting it to positive use. Kind of like a buggy horse.

Now, let’s not kid ourselves – we aren’t going to copy-paste an Amish lifestyle. But we can still take inspiration from their approach and apply some ideas in our own lives.

Here are 7 powerful (and practical) ways the Amish manage technology—and how their approach can help you reclaim your time, relationships, and peace of mind.

1. They Don’t Automatically Say Yes to Every New Tech

The Amish aren’t anti-technology—they’re selective. This means that when a new device appears (like a smartphone or solar panel), it’s not adopted immediately.

Church leaders and community members consider it, and discuss it, sometimes over years. Will it serve the family and community—or isolate people and distract from faith?

Takeaway: Before buying the next device or downloading the next app, ask: Is this helping me live better—or just adding noise?

2. They Keep Phones Out of the Center of the Home

Some Amish do use phones—but rarely in the house. Instead, they might share a community “phone shanty,” or keep a cellphone in the barn, or work truck.

The point is to keep it at arm’s length. That way, technology stays a tool—not a constant companion, or always-on interruptor.

Try This: Designate “phone-free zones” in your home (like the dinner table or bedroom). You might be surprised how it changes the mood.

3. They Focus on Face-to-Face Conversation

With no texting or social media, the Amish rely on old-fashioned talking. Sitting around the table. Visiting neighbors. Sharing stories. It builds deeper relationships—and keeps the loneliness epidemic at bay.

Challenge: Call a friend instead of texting. Better yet, prioritize meeting in person. Connection doesn’t have to be digital to be real.

4. They Prioritize Purpose Over Entertainment

Without TV, video games, or TikTok, Amish families turn to board games, reading, singing, chores, and outdoor play. It may sound simple, but there’s purpose in that simplicity. Time isn’t filled—it’s invested in activities that foster and build relationships.

Idea: Schedule a weekly “no screens night” where your family plays a game, cooks together, or just talks. It might become your favorite night of the week.

5. They Use Technology to Support, Not Distract

Some Amish businesses use computers, websites, or cellphones—but those tools are often “fenced in.” A printer may be battery-powered, or internet access limited to only what’s necessary. The goal is control—not addiction.

The question is: Is there a way to use this technology in a way that brings benefit – but avoids harm to relationships and community?

Takeaway: You don’t have to ditch tech—but you can decide how (and when) it’s used. Try a browser blocker or set specific online hours.

6. They Say No—Even When It’s Inconvenient

Saying no to convenient tech (like cars or internet) means the Amish sometimes walk, have to wait, or even work a bit harder to get a task done.

But that “inconvenience” often brings slower rhythms and deeper presence. They’re not constantly rushing—and they might just be less stressed because of it.

Another bonus is that restricting tech – think handwashing dishes rather than using a dishwasher – means more calories burned, and an activity the family can do together.

Reflection: What “convenient” tech in your life might actually be causing more stress than it saves?

7. They Let Faith and Values Lead the Way

Above all, Amish decisions about technology aren’t based on trend or profit—but on values: humility, family, simplicity, community. If something threatens those, they’re willing to say no.

Ask Yourself: What are the values you want your tech use to reflect? Does your daily screen time line up with what matters most to you?

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to live without electricity to take a lesson from the Amish. Their way of controlling technology is about being intentional, not extreme.

It’s about asking hard questions, setting boundaries, and remembering that more connection doesn’t always mean more apps—it might just mean fewer distractions.

Now, don’t get this wrong. It’s not easy to go against the trends of the world, especially, say, if you have children who naturally want to keep up with their friends.

But can there be a happy medium in your life, and in your family, where tech remains a part of it – but used in a more controlled, thoughtful manner?

Ready to try your own digital detox? Start small. One phone-free hour a day. One tech-free Sunday a month. And see what happens when you give your brain (and soul) a little more space.

~article created with AI assistance

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