Lifestyle (lahyf·stahyl) n. The habits, attitudes, tastes, moral standards, economic level, etc., that together constitute the mode of living of an individual or group.
Design (dih·zahyn) v. (used with object)
- To prepare the preliminary sketch or the plans for (a work to be executed), especially to plan the form and structure of: to design a new bridge.
- To plan and fashion artistically or skillfully.
- To intend for a definite purpose: a scholarship designed for foreign students.
- To form or conceive in the mind; contrive; plan: The prisoner designed an intricate escape.
- To assign in thought or intention; purpose: He designed to be a doctor.
There’s something interesting in the definition of Design, isn’t there? Definition 4. is the only one that states a physical action; “and fashion”. Leveraging the artistic nature of this definition, it can be concluded that Lifestyle Design, as interpreted by anyone currently acting on it is an endeavor (as opposed to those just planning… or dreaming), requires skill. In design, skill comes from the knowledge of good Design Elements.
The awesome thing about good Design Elements, in the application to one’s lifestyle, is that they are completely… and totally… personal. YOU decide what is good for you. Design Elements are the fundamental building blocks, the Framework if you will, to good artwork. Lifestyle Design Elements are, in essence, the Framework to your good lifestyle.
Likely, you’ll have different sets of “goals”… and you should. One of the core principles to artistic design is balance… and that’s still the case with good Lifestyle Design. Let’s call each of these sets of life’s goals “Design Elements,” OK? Good.
Design Element 1: Professional
These Elements are the things that you would like to do to help or provide services for others. These are the core pieces of your path. They will, of course, include the things that generate an income. They will also include anything that provides a legacy for you. When you think about a Job Title for yourself, these things would be where to start.
I want to make it easy for people to put their children’s need first, help people see and enjoy the path to personal / professional freedom, and offer low-cost, simple content websites (among others). You may want to offer custom wood working, teach people to crochet, or help others with WordPress.
Design Element 2: Personal
These Elements are the things you would like to do that solely benefit you. These are the foundations of what makes you unique on your path. You can think of them as “always wanted to do’s”. They have nothing to do with income and everything to do with that personal knowledge or experience.
You may want to lose weight, learn a new skill, or conquer some obstacle / fear. Right now, I want to be that guy that can comfortably dance when the situation calls for it.
When someone asks “What do you do?”, you’ll stop saying your profession, and start responding with these things.
Design Element 3: Daily Life
These Elements are the things that you are able to do. Think of these as the way you traverse your path. Some folks want to work on the beach. Others want to buy / eat fresh produce daily. Some want to bike everywhere they need to go. I want to be able to see my daughter’s games in the middle of the afternoon. Do you want to take a coffee break whenever you feel like it?
This may seem trivial to you, but it’s important. Really. Someone who waits tables may yearn for a structured day. Someone who wants to lose weight may desire a close gym to use at lunch. Interestingly enough, I thought I wanted to be able to do whatever, whenever… but what I really wanted was an enjoyable routine. Expounding on you knowing what you want, it may be helpful to think about this in terms of “when” or “how” are you going to do things.
Design Element 4: Social
These Elements are things you are able to do with and for others. This includes things that focus on giving of yourself to others. Think of it as who and how you interact on your path. We are not meant to be alone. Though you are designing your life, you will still have wonderful people in it and still more amazing opportunities to help others.
You may want more time to volunteer, spend more time with your children, or write a blog to help people hack social situations. I want to be part of a community, rather than just living in a house in a town.
Design Element 5: You
Ultimately, you’re designing a different you. Sure, all of the other elements play a role in that you. The fifth elements, though, are the intangibles. The “I’ve always wanted to be that guy”. Think of this as how you are on your path. It is your being defined by these fifth elements.
The best example is feeling whole. Explain that! It’s tough. Confidence is another good one. Do you find yourself taking enjoyable risks that you would have over-thought? Other examples are more energy, generally happier, or less stressed.
A note about balance:
The weight of an object dictates the quantity necessary to balance itself against another object. In your life, the relative weight of your Design Elements also dictates the amount of effort necessary to spend on them.
What are some examples of your Design Elements? I’ve got a comments section. You’ve got a keyboard.
