Emphasizes the practical ways someone might support themselves, often non-traditional or freelance work. Many artists live by doing commissions and selling their work online.
Pro Tip 2/3
Self-sufficiency
Points to the independence of a person who relies on their skills or actions to survive. He lives by doing all his farming, providing for his family.
Pro Tip 3/3
Not Mainstream
Can refer to earning a livelihood in less conventional or mainstream ways. She lives by doing makeup tutorials on social media.