Out of the job, but on the fast track?

By Amy Roe

Story Created: Jul 13, 2009 at 5:31 PM PST

Story Updated: Jul 14, 2009 at 12:51 PM PST

Out of the job, but on the fast track?

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For runners, one upside to unemployment may be the chance to set a personal best. Conventional wisdom might suggest laid-off weekend warriors, who now have 40 more hours in which to train, would improve, but personally, I didn't find that to be the case. To my great disappointment, the extra "free" time never felt free, and produced only a slight improvement in my race times-- about the same as when I'd had a job. While looking for work, I felt guilty about spending too much time running. Some others agree with me.

What do you think? Should job-seekers use the time off train harder and improve, or would they be better of focusing on the job search? 

Bottom Line

Could Facebook help you land a job?

  • Maybe, if used carefully
  • Probably not. Those people aren't your real friends.
  • No way! Facebook is for losers!

Bottom Line

Are dollar stores really a good deal?

  • Yes, but you've got to be careful.
  • No, they're for suckers who can't do math.
  • I wouldn't know-- I'm rich!

Bottom Line

Do you think weddings have gotten too lavish?

  • Yes, they're out of control
  • Sometimes
  • No
  • I don't know. I never get invited to them.

Bottom Line

Are you worried about being laid off?

  • Yes; my company is cutting jobs.
  • Yes; I think layoffs are coming.
  • No; my job is secure.
  • No, I've already been laid off.

Bottom Line

Are you feeling more confident about the economy?

  • Yes
  • No
  • Maybe
  • Not sure.

Bottom Line

Do you use points or mileage credit cards?

  • Yes, I put everything on them
  • Yes, for big purchases
  • NO, I don't need an incentive to rack up debt

Bottom Line

Do you use points or mileage credit cards?

  • Yes, I put everything on them
  • Yes, but only for big purchases
  • NO, I don't need an incentive to rack up debt
  • No, I don't use credit cards at all.

Bottom Line

Are lower home prices making you think about buying a home?

  • Yes
  • No
  • No - I already own a home

Bottom Line

Would you use food stamps?

  • Yes, I use them now.
  • Yes, if I qualified.
  • Maybe.
  • No, I would never use food stamps.

Bottom Line

Do you use coupons?

  • Yes, I always use them
  • Yes, whenever I can.
  • Sometimes, when I remember them.
  • What are coupons?