How to Build a Lifestyle Business
I like to think that I have a lifestyle business, I work for a few hours a day and then do what I want for the rest of the day, after I finish this article I’m off into town for a meet up with an old friend, no pressure to get back to my office.
Let’s look at what a lifestyle business is and how you can build one.
What Is a Lifestyle Business?
Here is my definition of a Lifestyle business.
A lifestyle business is designed to support the owner’s ideal lifestyle rather than focusing on endless growth, investor demands, or high-stress scaling.
The goal is to create freedom, flexibility, and sustainable income, allowing you to work on your terms while enjoying life.
Unlike traditional businesses that strive for expansion, a lifestyle business aims to generate a comfortable income with minimal stress, giving you control over your time and work-life balance.
Why Choose a Lifestyle Business?
Many people dream of financial freedom, but the typical “hustle culture” promoted online isn’t for everyone. Most people don’t need millions to be happy; they just want:
- Enough income to cover expenses and enjoy a few luxuries.
- Time flexibility to spend with family or pursue passions.
- A remote-friendly business that allows travel or working from anywhere.
- A stress-free work routine that prioritizes quality of life over profits.
Key Characteristics of a Lifestyle Business
- Freedom & Flexibility
- Set your own schedule and work from anywhere.
- No rigid 9-to-5 commitments or office requirements.
- Sustainable Income Over Extreme Growth
- The focus is on consistent, predictable earnings, not rapid scaling.
- No pressure to expand beyond what supports your lifestyle.
- Simple & Lean Business Model
- Low overhead costs and minimal complexity.
- Relies on automation and scalable income streams.
- Owner-Driven (Not Investor-Backed)
- No need for outside funding or investors.
- You control decisions, pace, and business direction.
- Automation & Passive Income Elements
- Many lifestyle businesses use passive income models.
- Less hands-on work means more time freedom.
How to Build a Lifestyle Business in 3 Steps
Step 1: Define Your “Why”
Before starting, ask yourself: Why do I want a lifestyle business?
Your reason will keep you motivated when things get tough.
Examples of strong “whys”:
- Family: Spending more time with kids instead of being stuck in a corporate job.
- Freedom: The ability to travel and work remotely.
- Stress-Free Work: Escaping burnout and creating a fulfilling routine.
Exercise 1: Write down why you want a lifestyle business and place it somewhere you’ll see daily.
Step 2: Keep It Simple
Many people overcomplicate online business with complex funnels and marketing jargon.
The reality?
Simple works.
The most effective business model is:
- Drive traffic to a landing page.
- Collect leads/ subscribers (email opt-ins/newsletter).
- Follow up with an automated email sequence leading to an offer./A weekly newsletter
That’s it!
You don’t need upsells, downsells, or fancy tricks.
The simpler your business, the easier it is to run.
Exercise 2: Sketch out a simple funnel using one page, one task, and one result.
Step 3: Set Realistic Goals
A lifestyle business should be predictable. After running a simple funnel for a while, you’ll see a pattern:
- X amount of traffic = Y amount of revenue.
- This predictability allows you to set achievable goals.
Start with small goals like:
- Gaining 1 new subscriber per day for a week.
- Making 1 sale per day for 3 consecutive days.
Over time, you’ll build momentum and be able to scale at your own pace.
When I started my newsletter I was gaining one subscriber each day , recently that been upto almost 1 per hour.. growth will happen if you stick with it.
Exercise 3: Set a realistic 4-week goal for your business and track progress.
Examples of Lifestyle Businesses
Not sure what type of business fits the lifestyle model? Here are some of the best options:
- Content-Based Businesses: Blogging, YouTube, newsletters, or podcasting.
- Freelancing & Consulting: Copywriting, coaching, web design, or marketing.
- E-Commerce & Digital Products: Selling online courses, templates, or memberships.
- Affiliate Marketing: Recommending products for commission-based income.
- Drop Servicing or Drop Shipping: Selling services/products without managing logistics.
Build a Business That Works for You
A lifestyle business isn’t about working harder,it’s about working smarter.
It’s about designing a business that fits into your life, not the other way around.
By following these steps, you’ll create a business that provides freedom, income, and fulfillment without unnecessary stress.
Whether you want to travel the world, spend more time with family, or just escape the 9-to-5 grind, a lifestyle business can make it happen.