What Is an Example Lifestyle? And Why the “Soft Life” Might Be a Lie (The Lifestyle Illusion)
lifestyle is everywhere in ads, on Instagram bios, and in conversations among Gen Z and millennials. But when someone asks, “What is an example of lifestyle?” most people instantly imagine luxury, vacations, and influencer aesthetics.
Here’s the hard truth: that’s not always real lifestyle. That’s branding.
In this article, we break down what a lifestyle truly is, give concrete examples, and challenge one of the most popular lifestyle trends in Nigeria today the “soft life.” Is it an authentic lifestyle or just another unattainable dream sold through filters and fake perfection?
What Is a Lifestyle?
At its core, a lifestyle is the sum total of how you live: your habits, values, choices, interests, and environment. It includes everything from how you eat and dress to how you work and unwind.
It’s not just what you post on social media—it’s what you do when no one is watching.
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What is your definition of a lifestyle?
Common Lifestyle Examples
Let’s get into it. These are some legitimate and recognizable lifestyle types, based on real-world habits—not digital aesthetics.
1. Minimalist Lifestyle
A minimalist chooses simplicity over excess. They live with less, avoid clutter, and prioritize intentional living. You won’t find them chasing the latest iPhone—they’re more likely to reuse, recycle, or say no altogether.
In Nigeria: Think of the young creative in Lekki who rides a bicycle, lives in a small but tidy studio, and shops second-hand. They prioritize peace over pressure.
2. Corporate Hustler Lifestyle
This is the classic 9–5 (or more like 8–8) Lagos or Abuja professional. Always in motion, phone glued to hand, climbing the career ladder, collecting degrees and certifications.
They believe in: hard work, promotion, and reputation.
But here’s the twist: while it’s praised, this lifestyle often comes at the cost of health and personal happiness.
3. Digital Nomad Lifestyle
A rising trend, especially among tech-savvy Nigerians. These are remote workers who earn in dollars and travel across states (or even countries), working from cafes or Airbnbs.
Flexibility is their luxury. But the question remains how sustainable is it long term in a country with erratic power supply and unstable internet?
4. Religious or Spiritual Lifestyle
Not all lifestyles are about income or aesthetics. Some people base their entire lives around faith prayer routines, dietary restrictions, dressing modestly, and avoiding secular events.
In Northern Nigeria, this lifestyle is predominant and respected, though often misunderstood by outsiders.
5. The Controversial One: The “Soft Life” Lifestyle
This is where the debate begins.
The Soft Life: Real Lifestyle or Empty Trend?
“Soft life” is everywhere on Nigerian TikTok and Instagram. It’s promoted as a life of comfort, ease, wealth, and zero stress. Spa days, rooftop brunches, no 9–5s, travel, silk robes, and designer bags.
But here’s the controversial question:
Is “soft life” a lifestyle or a lie?
Many young Nigerians idolize this way of living without understanding the cost. Most influencers portraying this lifestyle:
- Do not reveal the grind behind their luxury.
- Are subsidized by sponsors, rich partners, or side hustles.
- Don’t show the emotional and financial stress behind the scenes.
While there’s nothing wrong with luxury, pretending it’s the norm sets unrealistic expectations for average youth trying to survive Nigeria’s economy.
Why Example Lifestyles Matter
By understanding examples of real lifestyles not fantasy we empower people to make healthier, more authentic choices.
When you know:
- What your values are
- What your resources allow
- What truly brings you peace
You’ll stop chasing online illusions and build a lifestyle that serves you.
Lifestyle Is Not One-Size-Fits-All
Here’s another bombshell: no lifestyle is “better” than another.
- The minimalist isn’t “less than” the luxury lover.
- The 9–5 banker isn’t “behind” the digital nomad.
- The religious woman isn’t “missing out” on club nights.
Lifestyle is personal, contextual, and evolving. Your example lifestyle may look basic to someone else, but if it aligns with your values, it’s valid.
Nigeria’s Lifestyle Landscape: Diverse and Misunderstood
Nigeria’s youth are in a tug-of-war between cultural expectations and digital influence.
- Traditional expectations: marry early, work hard, be respectful.
- Modern pressures: make money fast, flaunt success, live soft.
Caught in between, many young adults are confused about what lifestyle to adopt. The solution? Choose intentionally.
WhatsnextNG Thoughts: What’s Your Example Lifestyle?
An example lifestyle isn’t something you copy from others—it’s something you create.
You could be:
- A Lagos tech bro living frugally while building your startup.
- A Kaduna-based woman who chooses religion and family over fame.
- A Port Harcourt artist painting all day and living on small gigs.
- A luxury-loving fashionista with a boutique that pays her bills.
All of these are real lifestyles.
Don’t just ask, “What’s an example lifestyle?” Ask yourself,
“What lifestyle fits the kind of life I actually want to live?”
What’s Next, NG?
Whatever lifestyle you choose, own it, live it, and make it real.
Don’t let trends choose for you.
Our today’s blog article explores the question, “What is an example lifestyle?” by breaking down real-life examples such as minimalism, corporate hustle, digital nomadism, religious living, and the trending “soft life.” It challenges the glamorized and overrated version of lifestyle promoted on social media, especially the “soft life” ideal, which often lacks transparency about the effort or privilege behind it.
So can all come to conclude that lifestyle isn’t about what looks good online, it’s about how you genuinely live, based on your values, habits, and choices. It encourages Nigerians to stop chasing trends and instead build lifestyles that align with their reality and purpose. The ultimate message? Your lifestyle is valid whether it’s simple, spiritual, busy, or luxurious—as long as it’s authentic.
FAQ – Example Lifestyle Questions
Q: Is “soft life” a real lifestyle?
A: It can be, but only if it’s sustainable and not dependent on social media illusions or external sponsors.
Q: Can your job define your lifestyle?
A: Yes. Your work routine, income, and how you balance it with life shape your lifestyle deeply.
Q: Are all lifestyles expensive?
A: Not at all. Some of the most fulfilling lifestyles are low-cost but high in value and meaning.
Q: Can I mix lifestyle types?
A: Definitely. Your lifestyle can evolve and include elements of different categories—just be honest about your reality.
