welcome to 2010

January 2nd, 2010

This is the time of year when many of us take time to reflect and relive the year’s ups and downs.  We miss our love ones who are no longer here, reminisce over our lovers from past and smile about our new ones.  Although there were some decisions that we surely regret, there were also some that made us feel as smart as Einstein.

We had moments of historic proportions as well as “more of the same”.  Unfortunately there were many people that  lost while a few gained when it comes to finances. I project 2010 will produce an unprecedented amount of entrepreneurs…not out of choice, but necessity.

It will pay to think outside the box when it comes to making money.

Especially when you find out there’s actually a niche for your crazy idea.  Here are a few of the craziest ways people are making money in this economy.

1. The Hair Trader: Jacalyn Elise co-founded an online company that lets users post ads selling their hair to the highest bidder. Recently, a bidder paid more than $2,600 for someone’s luscious locks.

2. The Hound About Dog Stroller: Never underestimate people’s ability to fawn over their pets and look ridiculous while doing it.  The fine folks that make the “Hound About” sell pet strollers in two different colors and sizes, at a retail price of $199.  Crucially, each stroller includes a cup holder for your $5 coffee.  Everyone knows that dogs just don’t lie to walk, right?

3. Bag Borrow or Steal: Created so that women do not have to endure the emotional and financial sacrifices that accompany the endless search for the right accessory for every event, wedding, and dinner party. Over 250,000 have joined the Netflix for handbags, Bag Borrow or Steal, which allows women to borrow luxury rather than forking out hard-earned funds to buy it.

4. Celeb 4 a Day: You can find out for yourself exactly what it feels like and maybe have your servants buy you a few free drinks along the way.  Celeb 4 A Day founder Tania Cowher thought it would be fun to provide the everyday person the experience of being famous.  As a result of her efforts, you, too, can indulge in low-grade complaining while sipping chocotinis in your limousine.

5. I Want to Cheer Up Limited (Rent a Relative): Tokyo’s I Want to Cheer Up agency dispatches relatives for weddings and funerals when actual family members cannot attend.  They also hire out fathers to help single women with their parenting duties and husbands to help women practice the routine of married life (except for sex).

Entry Filed under: The Thinker's Thoughts, Think About It!