Lifestyle is a combination of determining intangible and tangible factors that characterize an individual’s way of life. It is often associated with demographic variables, such as age and gender, as well as behavioural orientations, such as values, attitudes and motivations. It is also influenced by the person’s level of education, income and job status, as well as his or her interests, hobbies and habits.
Lifestyles are a topic of research in several fields, including sociology and health psychology. In general, research in this area tends to focus on the behavioural patterns that are considered unhealthy, such as smoking and a lack of physical activity. However, there are some researchers who try to broaden the perspective on this issue by considering other aspects of people’s lives, such as relationships, work, leisure and culture.
Initially, the concept of lifestyle was introduced by psychologist Alfred Adler as “the mature organisation of personality that emerges during adulthood”. Later, this definition was used by social science scholars to describe a set of behavioural characteristics that people adopt to fulfil certain objectives, such as economic or cultural success. This interpretation of the term is based on the assumption that these lifestyles are developed through personal and psychological experiences during childhood and adolescence, and that they form a person’s way of life.
Other studies have interpreted the meaning of lifestyle from an internal point of view, and they have given greater importance to the concept’s psychological dimensions. In particular, this current of thought has defined and analysed lifestyles as a style of thinking or behaviour that is justified by a set of values, attitudes or motivations. This approach is based on the theory of personality and, in particular, the works of Milton Rokeach, Arnold Mitchell and Lynn R. Kahle.
Another important aspect to consider is the temporal dimension that characterizes lifestyles. This issue is of interest to both the sociological and psychological approaches, and a clearer definition of lifestyles can help identify future research projects and guide the selection of lifestyle variables for evaluation.
In conclusion, there is an increasing need to define and analyse lifestyles from a sociological and psychological perspective. This will allow for a deeper and more holistic understanding of this construct, which is essential to the development of appropriate interventions.
A healthier lifestyle can improve your self-esteem, help you cope with emotional challenges and lead to more meaningful relationships. Regular exercise, healthy eating and adequate sleep can all contribute to a better quality of life.
This is especially true when it comes to your mental health. Having good mental wellness can help you deal with everyday stress and make healthier choices. The best way to maintain a healthy mindset is to avoid bad habits, such as smoking and overindulging in alcohol or junk food. It’s also a good idea to spend time with friends and family, as this can help you stay positive and happy. These steps will all lead to a happier, more fulfilling life, so it’s worth making the effort!
