Jobless using time off wisely

When it comes to losing their jobs, many Americans are trying to make the best of a bad situation, according to a new CareerBuilder survey.

Twenty-two percent of the 1,800 laid-off workers questioned said they are spending more time with family and friends as they look for a job. Another 15 percent said they are fixing up their homes, while 14 percent are exercising more.

“While finding a new job and steady paycheck is definitely top of mind, laid off workers are also concentrating on activities that will help them grow personally and professionally,” Rosemary Haefner, VP of human resources at CareerBuilder said in a news release.

Among other results:

11 percent are finally taking time to relax

8 percent are volunteering

7 percent are going back to school

6 percent are becoming more involved in their religious community

4 percent are starting their own business

4 percent are taking up new hobbies

3 percent are traveling

To make ends meet, 23 percent of laid off workers reported they are collecting unemployment or other financial aid, while 20 percent said they are cutting back on spending.

Among other ways respondents are surviving financially:

• 16 percent are relying on savings
  
• 12 percent said their spouse or significant other is supporting the household
  
• 6 percent sold some of their belongings
  
• 5 percent are taking odd jobs
  
• 4 percent are living on credit
  
• 3 percent moved back home or added a roommate
  
  Source: South Florida Business Journal