Why the Amish Are Laughing All the Way to the Bank
The Amish may seem like they live in a different century, but they know a thing or two about thriving without the latest tech or spending every dollar. While many view their lifestyle as old-fashioned, the Amish have mastered skills that keep them happy, debt-free, and grounded—things modern society could really use.
This community doesn’t shun business; in fact, Amish families often run successful enterprises, proving you don’t need a flashy brand or an Instagram account to succeed. With their simple but effective ways, the Amish offer lessons that show us how to save money, live well, and maybe even enjoy life a bit more along the way.
Living Without the Noise
Think “old-school cool,” but with bonnets, beards, and a strong commitment to simplicity. Originating from Swiss Anabaptist roots in the 1600s, the Amish split off to preserve their values and have stayed rooted in tradition ever since. They’re famous for their horse-drawn buggies, handmade clothes, and a lifestyle that skips the latest tech in favor of true craftsmanship and community.
Being a “closed community” means they focus on family and faith, keeping outside influences to a minimum. This lifestyle might seem extreme, but there’s a lesson here: living simply and valuing what matters. By shutting out consumer culture, the Amish teach us that less can be more, especially for our wallets.
Powering Down for Good
Imagine ditching your electric bill for good—sounds tempting, right? The Amish, famously “off-grid,” actually make it work without a single kilowatt. Instead of flicking a light switch, they rely on kerosene lamps for a warm glow, wood stoves for heat, and even gas-powered refrigerators to keep things cool.
For travel, it’s all horse and buggy, saving on gas and avoiding the high-tech hassles. Yet, some Amish communities make exceptions for emergencies, using generators or limited electricity at hospitals or during specific situations. This commitment to low-energy living has a point: cutting back not only trims costs but encourages creative ways to manage without endless plugs, screens, and chargers.
One Word for the World Beyond
To the Amish, everyone outside their community falls under one term: “English.” It doesn’t matter if someone hails from Japan, Zimbabwe, or Sweden; if they aren’t Amish, they’re “English.” This quirky tradition goes back to the early days when Amish settlers first encountered English-speaking outsiders, and the label simply stuck.
They couldn’t exactly call non-Amish people “Americans,” as the Amish consider themselves American too. So, “English” became the universal tag for anyone not part of their community. This unique perspective adds a curious charm to Amish culture, reflecting their steady traditions and distinct view of the world beyond their close-knit society.
Building Legacies, Not Luxuries
For most Americans, success often means a big house, a sleek car, and a wardrobe to match. But in the Amish community, goals look very different. Economists studying the Amish observe that they’re not driven by flashy purchases or short-term gains; they’re focused on stability and legacy.
Wealth for the Amish isn’t about luxury—it’s about long-term security, providing for family, and ensuring a strong community. Money is a tool, not a trophy, and Amish families are more likely to invest in farmland or resources that last generations rather than high-end goods. Their approach prioritizes purpose over prestige, creating a lifestyle grounded in value and sustainability.