Core Insights - A significant majority of Americans and federal employees are experiencing financial anxiety due to the ongoing government shutdown, with many expressing a willingness to start side hustles or small businesses as a response to economic uncertainty [1][2][6]. Economic Impact - The survey indicates that 61% of American adults and 76% of federal employees are concerned about the financial implications of the government shutdown [6]. - Economic anxiety is leading to reduced consumer spending, with 63% of federal employees and 41% of Americans reporting cutbacks in their expenditures [6][4]. Entrepreneurial Intent - The findings suggest that economic instability may drive a new wave of self-reliance, with 50% of Americans and 41% of federal employees indicating they would likely start a business or side hustle if their income were disrupted [6][5]. - 70% of Americans and 67% of federal employees agree that the shutdown highlights the importance of self-reliance in generating income [6]. Spending Behavior - The survey reveals that 44% of government employees and 29% of all consumers are delaying major purchases due to the shutdown [6]. - Concerns about the shutdown's impact extend to small businesses, with 71% of Americans and 90% of federal employees expressing worry about potential negative effects [6].