Lifestyle photography means different things to different types of photographers. Some might say photojournalism is the truest form of lifestyle photography. A portrait or wedding photographer would describe it as putting their subjects in real life situations and capturing almost candid moments. I shoot commercial and editorial work so more often than not I create scenes using models and props that feel like real life events but weren't. No matter how you look at it though, lifestyle photography is about telling stories.
For me, lifestyle photography is almost always planned to some degree. Whether it's a full crew with models and props or a rock climber stopping and holding that perfect pose in just the right spot. A lot of prep and planning go into getting the best commercially viable shot possible. That being said, all these tips apply to any photoshoot that is trying to tell a story and get better lifestyle shots.