Lifestyle values are the ones that often aren’t directly related to the job, but can come about (or not) as a result of the job. In other words, they’re things like if you live in a big city, the suburbs, or in another country. Whether you own a home or rent. If you have time to spend with your loved ones—related to the extrinsic value of work-life balance, but also a lifestyle essential on its own. For example, insurance claims adjusters often report that the work they do is very rewarding, personally as well as in terms of its impact. But sometimes they also find the work frustrating because of its toll on their personal lives. If there’s a tornado in Kansas, your planned vacation in Hawaii isn’t going to happen. Fires in California will put a quick end to your ability to watch your child’s first piano recital. Another lifestyle value is the ability to save money, which is related to the extrinsic value of pay, but is also directly impacted if you’re required to live in an expensive city.
If your lifestyle values aren’t being met, you probably know that up front. You hate where you live, you don’t get to see your family, you haven’t had time to sit down and cook a meal for yourself in 5 months. This is an exhausting way to live, even if all your other values are being met, and can lead to burnout and even health issues if it continues.
