Unusual UK heat wave forcing creative thinking

Staying cool is helping people look outside the norm for solutions.

07:45 23 July 2013

The heat wave in the UK has been causing discomfort and some unconventional methods to cope, such as reportedly the recent admission that Nick Clegg takes his shoes off in his office to help stay cool when he doesn’t need to be in the public eye.

Thinking creatively is not just important during a heat wave, but also when it comes to investments. Many people think only of stocks and shares when they hear someone mention investments, but there are a variety of ways to try and create a return:

• Websites—a growing number of websites exist to help people obtain funds for special projects. One could receive certain types of benefits from these programmes which could turn a profit and therefore could legitimately be considered investments. For example donating money to a project might entitle a person to receive a limited edition product or signed memorabilia.

 

• Start-up businesses—one way to take control of your investments is to create your own business, enter a partnership, or become a financial backer for a promising product, service, or entity.

 

• Property—just about any property is a safe and intelligent investment. Property values typically rise over time and carry additional clout because of the varied possibilities. Property can be rented for a source of income, or sold for a lump sum.

 

• Metals—this might not be something you immediately think of when you hear the term “investments”, but many people have successfully put money into purchasing silver, gold, and other metals or gems. These tend to hold their value relatively well and are especially effective if you have long-term goals in mind.

 

• Travel—owning one, or multiple, time shares might allow you to see an increase in your income since people may use time shares for their vacations. You would receive the financial benefits from those types of investments.