Balancing Technology, Faith, and Fulfillment

 

I often find myself reflecting on how we maintain a sense of purpose amid all the pixels and bytes.

This morning, I spoke at an event for real estate professionals about artificial intelligence—just one of many technological shifts transforming our workplaces and lives in profound ways.

Screen Time vs. Soul Time

In my mastermind groups, we frequently discuss our complex relationship with technology.

When our phones feel like extra hands and our laptops are constant companions, it’s worth asking: what are we actually consuming?

Are we feeding our minds with content that nourishes the soul, or merely chasing illusions of perfection that leave us longing for more?

As a Christian, I reflect on what we set our eyes upon and how it shapes us. Psychology shows that what we consume influences our contentment. Endless scrolling through curated highlights of others’ lives can make us forget the blessings in our own.

The Physical vs. Digital Divide

Lately, I’ve been thinking about whether we’re losing touch with the physical world. Most of us spend our days at desks, waging digital battles instead of tangible ones.

I’ll admit: I can’t fix my refrigerator or change my oil without guidance. But there’s profound satisfaction in building or fixing something tangible. Digital wins often lack the immediate sense of accomplishment that physical work provides.

After a day of emails and screens, you might ask yourself: “What did I actually accomplish today?”

AI and the Search for Meaning

AI is advancing at unprecedented speeds, and while I advocate embracing change, we must also consider the human side.

Economists discuss retraining programs and universal basic income—but I’m more concerned with dignity and purpose. When AI handles spreadsheets, emails, and even creative work, what restores our sense of contribution?

These aren’t just philosophical questions—they are existential ones we all face as automation reshapes work.

Raising Children in the Digital Age

After reading Jonathan Haidt’s Anxious Generation, I’ve become more intentional about how my family navigates technology.

With two young daughters and another child on the way, I see my role as both parent and guide, discipling them in faith and humanity.

Haidt notes that my generation was often overprotected in the physical world but underprotected digitally. Today, we must flip that script. Physical crime is historically low, yet digital risks abound. Parents must balance freedom in the physical world with appropriate digital boundaries.

Community as an Antidote

To counter digital isolation, we create physical gathering spaces. Through our event space, we host meetups and build genuine connections.

Face-to-face interactions provide something screens cannot: human connection. Building spaces where people can gather, share ideas, and form relationships is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work—beyond both real estate and Circle J Meat.

Intellectual Speculation vs. Functional Knowledge

John Tyson, a preacher at Church of the City in New York, once said:

“There’s a lot of intellectual speculation, but the world thrives on functional knowledge.”

We live in an age of theories and concepts, where everyone becomes a pseudo-expert through podcasts and online content. But true impact comes from applying knowledge, especially spiritual knowledge, in practical ways. Intelligence alone isn’t enough—we must act meaningfully in our daily lives.

Conclusion

Navigating these technological waves requires perspective. It’s about using digital tools without being consumed by them.

It’s finding the balance between ambition and contentment, creating meaningful work while appreciating what we already have. Sometimes, it means putting the phone down, gathering with friends, working with our hands, and remembering that our worth isn’t measured by digital output but by something far more lasting.

To explore more of my thoughts on faith, business, and life, visit Jacob Voncannon.