The Amish people and community are unique in many ways. To most outsiders, they are mostly soft-spoken people who live simple lives and do not use electricity or drive cars. They’ve also gotten enough bad press to make some people wary. No matter how you feel about their beliefs, the traditional Amish community and way of life offer some financial advantages that anyone can consider adopting.
Obviously, some adjustments involve sacrifices and commitments that not everyone is willing to make, but these principles can still help you find ways to save. Here are some lessons we can learn from this community.
1. Sometimes “need” actually means “want”
Most people develop a sense of need for things they don’t need. Since most people are not driven by an amenity-averse culture, it may take a financial crisis to help a person realize what he or she can give up. How many times have you said or heard the saying, “One has to have some comfort.” to justify owning a second television, a luxury car, or something similar? If saving money is your goal, look around and find out what your real necessities are.
2. Simple is good
In many ways, the things we spend extra money on either complicate our lives or end up costing more in the long run. A self-propelled lawn mower doesn’t cut the grass any better; it’s just easier and has more moving parts to replace. A brisk hike in the fresh air is just as effective as a 30-minute walk on an expensive treadmill, and you’ll enjoy it more. Manual hedge trimmers are half the price of electric ones, make less noise, and give your arms a good workout.
3. Develop your own
I know, not everyone can raise livestock or large crops, but most of us can grow some vegetables or herbs, even if they are miniature indoor varieties. Not only will you save some money, but you’ll also get a product that tastes better and is healthier. In fact, according to the Mayo Clinic, becoming an active gardener can improve your physical health, diet, mental health and lower your stress levels. You can find the article here.
4. More people, more power, low cost
When a big project comes up in the Amish community, families and neighbors pitch in to get it done. Sure, building a barn is nearly impossible if you live in the city, but that doesn’t mean family and friends can’t help repair the back fence or build a deck. Building codes in most cities will allow homeowners to make improvements to their home and “hire” someone to help. Most jobs require a permit and there will be inspections, but if you can’t afford a contractor, a few free meals and a case of beer might go a long way to paying your friends.
5. Craftsmanship isn’t about expensive tools
Amish woodworking’s reputation is built on attention to detail, patience, and secrets passed down from generation to generation. Many of their tools are handmade. You may be wondering what this has to do with saving money. It’s very simple. Photographers don’t need a top-of-the-line DSLR camera to capture stunning images. Web developers don’t need to have the latest computers or software to create great websites. Whatever you do, don’t get into a situation where you need the biggest and the best. Become a master of the tools you own and save some money.
6.Keep your tools safe
Keeping your trading tools alive for longer doesn’t mean letting them break. Any skilled craftsman knows that without proper maintenance, tools will fail. Keeping your equipment in good condition means it will perform better and last longer. Having to replace them due to premature failure is not cost-effective.
7. Quality is worth the investment
One of the reasons Amish furniture is in such high demand is that it is durable. Due to meticulous construction methods and hand-selected materials, many Amish pieces become heirlooms. Sometimes saving money means spending a little extra to buy something you won’t throw away quickly. Of course, this doesn’t just apply to furniture.
For example, Reddit user ALightPseudonym posted on the r/BuyItForLife subreddit:
8. Make full use of resources
For Amish farmers, cattle are a source of dairy products and fertilizer. Woods can provide building materials but need to be managed properly as they also produce game for the table and other natural foods. Rotate crops carefully to optimize soil conditions and help control crop diseases. Careful resource management helps the Amish community sustain itself with little outside help. We can all save money by learning to manage, recycle and repurpose the things we have.
9. Make the most of what you have
The Amish’s famous horse-drawn strollers have also been passed down and have been repaired or refurbished many times. The same goes for their other properties. The basic principle is that if something serves its purpose, it doesn’t need to be replaced. Imagine how much money you could save by keeping your car a few years after your loan is paid off. How about refurbishing your dining room table instead of replacing it? You’ll save money by making the things you own last longer.
10. Gifts don’t have to cost a lot of money
Traditional Amish birthday gifts and more are simple, practical items, and often singular. Typically tools or clothing. While there’s no need to radically adjust your gift-giving approach, it doesn’t hurt to consider purchasing one thoughtful gift instead of a dozen expensive ones.
In fact, the Amish are often very wealthy
The Amish are often very successful in business, but because their expenses are so low, they are often able to amass large fortunes (BI.com). A 2010 Houston Chronicle report also showed that Amish businesses typically have low debt levels and view wealth as a means to an end rather than an end in itself (chron.com). Therefore, their frugal and religiously oriented lifestyle has brought fruits to the Amish community. They are well worth a look.
When it comes to surviving hard times, the Amish have maintained their culture and community in North America for centuries while largely relying on themselves. What better example could there be for those of us struggling to support ourselves and our families in today’s economy?
(Photo courtesy of Pulyav)
What lessons do you think we can learn from the Amish community? Share it with us in the comments below.
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