Hey there, tech-savvy Gen Z fam! Let’s talk about something that probably feels wildly impossible in this era of TikTok trends and constant phone notifications, owning less tech. Before you roll your eyes and swipe away, hear me out. Let’s take a look at the OG minimalist, the one and only Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and see how his timeless wisdom might just be the life hack we need today.
1. Muhammad (PBUH) Knew the Value of Simplicity
First things first: the Prophet (PBUH) was all about keeping it simple. He didn’t surround himself with flashy stuff, even when he had the means to do so. While we’re out here stressing over upgrading to the iPhone 27 Pro Max Plus Infinity (because, duh, we need better selfies), the Prophet (PBUH) focused on essentials.
He lived in a humble home, owned just a few belongings, and made the most out of what he had. So, here’s the question: Do we really need a smartwatch to tell us to drink water when our mom’s been yelling that at us since forever? Maybe it’s time to Marie Kondo our tech and ask: Does this app spark joy or just drain my soul?
2. He Took Time to Connect (Like, Really Connect)
Picture this: The Prophet (PBUH) is chilling under a tree, having deep, meaningful conversations with his companions. There’s no “brb, gotta answer this DM,” or “Wait, let me record this for my story.” His focus was on being present with the people around him.
Now, imagine trying that today, leaving your phone in the other room (gasp!) while hanging out with friends or family. Sounds scary, right? But here’s the thing: constant scrolling isn’t helping our relationships. In fact, it’s the digital equivalent of that one friend who’s always “too busy” to hang out.
Pro Tip: Start with baby steps. Maybe try a “no phones at dinner” rule. Your followers will survive if you’re MIA for an hour.
3. He Rested Without the Need for Blue Light Glasses
The Prophet (PBUH) was a huge advocate for balance. He rested when he needed to and prayed in peaceful solitude, without checking a smartwatch for his sleep score. Shocking, right?
The way we’re glued to our screens, whether it’s late-night YouTube rabbit holes or doom-scrolling Twitter, doesn’t just wreck our sleep but also our peace of mind. The Prophet’s lifestyle teaches us the importance of unwinding without the distraction of tech.
Pro Tip: Establish a digital sunset. Turn off your devices an hour before bed and try journaling or reciting some Qur’an instead. Trust me, it hits differently than Netflix.
4. He Focused on What Truly Matters
One of the coolest things about Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) lifestyle was his focus on what really mattered: faith, family, and community. You know what he didn’t do? Spend three hours customizing his Spotify playlists. (No shade, but you get the point.)
Think about it: How much of our screen time is actually useful? If the answer is “uhh…,” maybe it’s time to rethink how we spend our time.
Pro Tip: Replace one tech-heavy activity with something meaningful. Instead of spending an hour on Instagram, volunteer, call a friend, or even just take a walk and reflect.
5. He Taught Gratitude Over Greed
Let’s be honest, tech companies are experts at convincing us we’re missing out. Every new gadget promises to “revolutionize your life,” but all it really does is empty your bank account.
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized gratitude and contentment. He taught us to appreciate what we have rather than constantly chasing the next shiny thing. So, the next time you’re tempted by a gadget ad, ask yourself: Do I need this, or am I just falling for FOMO?
6. He Practiced Mindful Consumption
While the Prophet (PBUH) didn’t have to worry about deleting Candy Crush or unsubscribing from emails, he did teach us about mindfulness in all aspects of life. He ate only what he needed, used resources wisely, and avoided waste.
In our world, that translates to being intentional about tech. Do you need every app on your phone? Are all those subscriptions necessary? Spoiler alert: Probably not.
Pro Tip: Do a digital detox. Delete apps you don’t use, cancel subscriptions you forgot about, and organize your devices. Trust me, it feels so good.
7. Community > Connectivity
Last but definitely not least, the Prophet (PBUH) showed us that true connection comes from building real relationships, not just racking up followers.
Social media can feel like a popularity contest, but the Prophet (PBUH) reminds us that what matters is the quality of our relationships, not the quantity of likes. So, instead of spending hours curating the perfect post, invest that time in building meaningful bonds IRL.
Wrapping It Up
Look, I’m not saying you need to yeet your phone into the nearest body of water. Tech isn’t inherently bad, but when it starts controlling your life instead of serving it, that’s where the problem lies.
By taking a page (or seven) from the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) lifestyle, we can learn to own less tech, live more intentionally, and focus on what really matters. So, the next time you’re doom-scrolling or obsessing over the latest gadget, ask yourself: WWMD, What Would Muhammad Do?
Spoiler alert: He’d probably tell you to log off and enjoy the sunset.
Your turn, Gen Z crew! How do you balance tech and faith? Drop your thoughts (after a healthy, non-addictive amount of screen time, of course) in the comments below!