Innovative Investment Strategies That Will Pay Off Handsomely in 2022

Julie Starr • November 8, 2021



With the year 2022 rapidly approaching, you may be considering how to effectively invest your money in the coming year. In today’s world, there are a wealth of diverse alternatives to invest money in, but which ones are truly worthwhile? It’s fair that you want to make the most out of your hard-earned money, so we’ve come up with some innovative investment strategies that will pay off handsomely in 2022.

P2P lending

Peer-to-peer (P2P) lending is a great option if you’re searching for an investment that doesn’t need much of your time and is really straightforward. This is where you lend modest sums of money to other people. In a sense, you’re similar to a bank, only you’re the one enjoying the rewards. You earn money via P2P lending by charging interest on the money you’ve loaned out. Just remember to be wise and use a lending platform to make sure your money is safe and you’ll get the return you want. Sure, the platform you’re using will take a cut, but you’ll still come out ahead.

Real estate investing

With the world’s population rising at a breakneck pace, there will always be a need for houses, which is why property investing will always be a sensible investment. Spending more is the key to generating more money from your property investment. Rental apartments can be rented out for a higher price than properties in a tiny suburban town, even if this may sound backhanded. If you’re going to invest in property, bear in mind that the more money you spend, the more money you’ll make in the long run.

Business

Business investment is another strategy to significantly increase the value of your hard-earned cash. Investing in a brand that you feel will succeed is always a smart decision. Maybe you’re familiar with a company that has a wonderful idea but is having trouble getting off the ground ? Investing in it can assist the concept you care about in reaching its full potential while also netting you a nice return! This is especially true for sustainable businesses which bring innovation and also environmental benefits to the business landscape. 

Maybe you’ve got a business idea up your sleeve. Why not start your own business if you have the funds to invest? It’ll be a great way to put your money to good use while also allowing you to make a lot of money in the future.

Domains

You don’t have to be a computer wiz to buy domain names you think will be popular in the future. Common names or names that are similar to corporate names are usually a good place to start, but if you truly want to be creative with the domain names you acquire, try to think on the comedic side of life. Someone will always want to create a blog or a company and will need the right domain name, so think ahead and get some now. They normally start off at a modest price, but if you retain them for a long time (particularly if you use them), their value will rise, and you will earn a tidy profit.

Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency has been around for some time now, yet many people are still reluctant to learn about how it could help them increase their wealth. This is understandable because if you don’t know what you’re doing, you could potentially lose lots of money. However, with the right guidance, cryptocurrency can not only be a good investment, but it can also be extremely thrilling! Here’s a complete guide to crypto currency if you’re unsure where to start.

Once you’re clued up, you can begin investing some money into bitcoin and watch your wealth grow. When you’re ready to buy cryptocurrency , take your time to begin with until you understand the processes firsthand. Once you’ve seen how it works inside and out, you can then begin to invest large amounts of money should you wish. However, much to the surprise of many, even smaller investments in bitcoin can bring a tidy return!

Career and Education

Whether you’re a parent considering your children’s education or a student unsure of your future steps, education is unquestionably an investment worth making. Having a strong education and going above and above in your studies will allow you to start a lasting profession that will be financially rewarding to you in the future. The more you learn, the better your chances of finding a well-paid job are.

Keep in mind that financial aid is available to students who otherwise may not be able to pursue their academic goals. Education should not be viewed as a financial burden, and there is plenty of support available if you search for it. One alternative is to take a part-time university course while working. This will help you to live a comfortable life while learning and earn valuable experience for your CV.

Even if your work experience has nothing to do with the position you’re applying for, it’s always a good idea to include some on your resume while looking for a job. An employer, for example, would prefer to hire someone who has demonstrated customer service expertise over someone who has never worked before. When you combine it with your degree, you should have a much simpler time landing the job you want.

Children

While you cannot “purchase” children, having a family is an investment in your life that is well worth the money. If creating a family has always been a desire of yours and you and your spouse are ready to have children, why not get started now? However, you should educate yourself on how much money you’ll need to sustain your children since the amounts can be shocking to many new parents.

Children are a fantastic source of youthfulness and provide joy to the lives of many people. So, while having a kid isn’t always a financial investment, it is unquestionably a good one to consider for your health, heart, and life. They are nothing short of spectacular.

Cars and Driving

Even if driving isn’t a necessity for everyone, it does make life a little easier for a lot of individuals. If you haven’t learned to drive yet, now is a good time to start thinking about it so you can start reaping the rewards. Here are a few examples:

  1. You have the freedom to drive wherever you choose without having to rely on anybody else.
  2. It gives you peace of mind to know that you can go anywhere fast in an emergency.
  3. Being able to drive to work, the store, and to pick up the kids from school
  4. The ability to drive your family on vacation

Because the cost of driving lessons rises every year, the sooner you start learning to drive, the less expensive it will be. If you’re short on time, consider taking an intensive driving course, which will allow you to study and pass your test in a few weeks (you can take time off work) and get you back on the road right away. Look at intensive driving lessons in your region and consider the benefits and drawbacks of your circumstance.

The cost of having a car might be prohibitive for some people, even if they have passed their driving test. Buying a used car might be affordable at first, but issues with the car can end up costing considerably more than expected. One excellent option is to finance a new car. Service, insurance, and tax are all included in one monthly price. You’ll know exactly how much you’re paying for your car upfront, and you’ll drive away in a brand new one!

Collectibles

Have you ever started collecting items for your personal pleasure? Is there anything in particular that you’re interested in? You might be surprised to learn that millions of people throughout the world are able to retire on the profits they receive from selling their personal memorabilia. Whether you were a fan of comic books or vinyl records as a kid, you may want to discover how much they’re worth right now. Holding on to these objects and ensuring that they remain in excellent shape will improve their worth as time passes. Furthermore, if you are able to add to your collection, the sum you would receive if you sold them will only rise in value over time!

Alcohol

Finally, one of the most bizarre investments that people make is in alcoholic beverages, specifically wine. This is because wine improves in flavor over time, and if you’re lucky enough to find the correct one, you may easily double or triple the price you spent. Other liquids, such as scotch, whiskey, and port, are in the same boat. Consider collecting wine with the hopes of making a fortune one day!

Try these 10 unusual yet successful ways to invest your money, and you’ll be surprised at how much money you may make. Keep in mind that spending wisely will pay dividends in the long term! Which of the list will you try first? Let us know in the comments below!

 

Eco-Friendly Garden Prep: Summer Tips for a Greener Business Space

By Julie Starr • June 5, 2025
If you're lucky enough to have a garden as part of your business, taking some time to set it up for summer is a great investment of your energy. Not only will it be ready for your customers to spend time in, but you can also incorporate some eco-friendly elements into it. Many people just think about the property and what eco-friendly updates they can make , but there are plenty that you can implement in your garden. This gives you the best of both worlds. You own a sacred and beautiful place for your customers to spend their summer, and at the same time, you can do your part for a better planet. If this is the route you want to take, then you also need to consider how to do this with the different seasons. To help you on your journey, here are some top tips for preparing your garden for summer. Plant trees and flowers Planting trees and flowers in your garden is a must. It will make a beautiful scene of nature for everyone to enjoy. Trees will provide people and animals with shade, as well as provide a habitat for wildlife. More trees are needed in the world because they purify the air that we breathe. Flowers, especially if you plant with pollinators in mind, can be an excellent way to attract bees and butterflies, which contribute largely to the earth. Use natural pest control When preparing your garden for summer, you can do this more sustainably and kindly by using natural pest control. Simply by planting trees and flowers, you are likely to attract lots of different wildlife, some of which may destroy your efforts. While all wildlife should be considered, you may need to take measures. Some better and more eco-friendly ways you can do this, as opposed to spraying toxic chemicals onto your plants and into the air, you can implement companion planting, using protective nets over your crops, choosing resilient plants, using natural repellents, and encouraging natural predators so nature can do its thing. Maintain your garden Maintaining your garden in itself can make it more eco-friendly. Composting your garden waste regularly, and kitchen waste can help you to reduce overall waste and create nutrient-rich soil. This is a great cycle of sustainability. You can also keep on top of things that need cleaning and replacing, so you can recycle the materials for other garden structures and projects, and repurpose things around your garden before they become waste. If you have features in your garden like a swimming pool, then a regular pool maintenance service is going to be vital in keeping your water consumption to a minimum, as when it is cleaned and maintained, it will need to be drained and refilled less as well as using less energy. You could also consider how you can use natural purification methods to reduce chemical usage and support biodiversity right in your backyard. Your garden is just an eco-friendly project waiting to be built. Use these top tips to help you get started.

The Impact of Sustainable Practices on the Food Service Industry

By Julie Starr • June 3, 2025
Sustainability is no longer something that can be considered optional in many businesses, including the food industry. From fast casual to fine dining, businesses face pressure to reduce waste, cut emissions, and use resources responsibly. Customers noticed, so too did regulators. This shift isn't about trends; it's about long-term business health. Operators now rethink everything: ingredients, packaging, equipment, and even furniture. The choices that they make affect cost, reputation, and the environment. Forward-thinking brands see sustainability as a chance to stand out, align with customer values, save money, and future-proof their business. Let's look at how sustainable practices are shaping the future of food service and why furniture choices matter more than ever. Sustainable Sourcing and Supply Chains Restaurants are choosing local, seasonal, and organic ingredients. More often, this reduces transportation emissions and supports nearby farms. It also appeals to customers who want food with a story. Sourcing matters; a restaurant that serves organic produce imported from thousands of miles away loses credibility. Local sourcing, when possible, keeps the supply chain shorter and more resilient. They also build community relationships. Sustainable seafood, fair trade coffee, and certified humane meat are becoming menu standards. But it's not just food; suppliers that use low-impact materials, avoid single-use plastics, or operate zero-waste facilities are getting more attention. Working with responsible vendors reduces environmental impact and strengthens the restaurant's reputation. It also makes it easier to meet sustainability benchmarks and certifications. Reducing Food Waste and Single-Use Plastics Food waste is expensive. Restaurants are responding with better forecasting, smaller portions, and creative ways to repurpose ingredients. Many now donate leftovers or compost scraps. Smart kitchen systems have reduced waste by tracking usage and spoilage. Front of house, more places encourage guests to take home leftovers or offer flexible portion sizes. Single-use plastics are also being phased out; straws, cutlery, and containers are switching to compostable or reusable versions. Many cities now require this, but even without mandates, customers expect it. Small changes make a big difference, such as swapping plastic lids for fiber-based ones or using reusable containers for takeout. In the long run, it also sends a clear message about your brand Energy Efficiency and Equipment Choices Energy use is a major cost for food service businesses. Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and HVAC systems can contribute significantly. Induction cooktops, LED lighting , low-flow faucets, and energy-saving refrigeration reduce the environmental footprint. Some kitchens are even going all-electric to reduce reliance on gas. Smart energy monitoring systems provide real-time insights; this helps operators find waste, track trends, and make better decisions. Beyond the kitchen, some restaurants invest in solar panels or purchase renewable energy. It shows leadership and appeals to customers who care about climate action. Designing with Sustainability in Mind Interior design now plays a role in sustainability. Choosing eco-friendly materials and modular furniture reduces waste and supports the circular economy. Furniture companies that sell food service furniture offer tables, chairs, and booths made from recycled or responsibly sourced wood, metal, and plastics. Their products are durable, stylish, and built to last, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Long-lasting furniture means fewer items in landfills. Plus, some suppliers offer take-back programs or extended product life. The right furniture also supports flexible layouts, which is important for adapting to changing service models like outdoor dining or shared spaces. Aligning with Customer Expectations More diners care about sustainability than ever before. It’s something that is extremely prominent in today’s dining experience. They want to support places that reflect their values. Transparency matters too , diners want to know exactly what businesses are doing to be more sustainable. Posting sourcing details, using certifications, and showing behind-the-scenes efforts builds trust. Sustainability isn't just a back-of-house concern; it should be visible throughout the customer journey. Guests notice packaging, signage, cleaning products, and even furniture. If your chairs are made from reclaimed wood or your tables are built from recycled metal, it becomes part of the story you tell. Employees also want to work for businesses that care; sustainability efforts can boost morale, improve retention, and create a strong workplace culture. Being consistent across all touchpoints helps turn sustainability from a checklist into a core part of your brand identity. Tracking Progress and Measuring Impact To stay on track, businesses need to measure what matters. Sustainability isn't guesswork; it's data-driven. Many restaurants now set goals for waste reduction, water usage, and carbon emissions. Digital dashboards, smart meters, and waste tracking apps provide clear feedback. Certifications like LEED , Green Restaurant Association, or B Corp can help validate progress, but the real value comes from aligning with goals and quickly reporting results. This transparency involves sharing results with staff and customers. This builds trust and shows accountability. Food service brands that track their impact tend to improve faster; they spot problems early and share wins more confidently. A culture of measurement helps maintain steady progress and keeps sustainability top of mind. Collaborating Across the Industry No restaurant can do it alone. Real change happens through partnerships. Food services need ot consider teaming up with local farms, recycling programs, and talking to local councils about any green schemes . This collaboration speeds up progress and helps avoid mistakes. Industry groups and supply networks now host workshops and certifications focused on sustainability. These shared resources help smaller businesses catch up and stay competitive. Technology platforms also make collaboration easier. Apps that connect surplus food with charities or tools for joint purchasing of sustainable goods are helping restaurants work smarter together. By building strong networks, the industry strengthens itself. Working together, sustainability leads to better outcomes and stronger communities. Conclusion: Building a Sustainable Future in Food Service Sustainability touches every part of the food service industry, from menus to materials. The shift toward responsible choices is clear. Restaurants that act now gain a competitive edge; they reduce costs, attract loyal customers, and stay ahead of regulations. The transition doesn't have to be all or nothing; small steps lead to big changes. Choosing eco-friendly furniture, like the options from food service furniture, is one of the smart steps. It shows commitment, supports long-term value, and elevates the dining experience. Sustainability is no longer an add-on; it’s a business essential. For those who embrace it, it can be a source of growth, loyalty, and resilience.