Do Not Trust Your Co-Workers: They Are Not Your Friends

[@Antoinette14273]

It is called Office Politics! That's why I never went out for Friday drinks and gossiped, or got involved in eating birthday cakes or partaking in Kris Kringle/Secret Santa in the office. Never stayed back unless they paid overtime. I used all my allocated sick leave each year -- It is a "job" if you have a boss you answer to. A "Hi" in the morning. "Bye" in the afternoon. Repeat. Nothing more.

[@themartinblairproject]

@@Antoinette14273 You are absolutely correct. Thank you so much for sharing 😃🙏

[@Antoinette14273]

@@themartinblairproject I am enjoying your new journey. I know it is a shock but you are handling it and not wallowing about those dead s#%ts at the old company.

[@Kronos21782]

I'm in the United States, but this man speaks the truth. I agree with you 100%.

[@Malik-ks2yt]

i believe that they say things like “we are family” as a mind game because who wants to leave their “family” for a better opportunity

[@kathykochersperger6848]

I agree Martin. Co-workers are not your friends. They are out for themselves.

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you Kathy. Sadly that’s true.

[@flowers52314]

So true. Especially not sharing with coworkers about your personal life. I learned that the hard way. Martin, everything on your list is spot on. Every time I hear "we are family" in a work place I cringe.

[@dorothycutler5539]

​@flowers52314 true unfortunately

[@sharonlaudat3297]

Absolutely! I have had enough tire marks on my back over the years to know that's true.

[@themartinblairproject]

@@sharonlaudat3297 Yes. Absolutely.

[@romanhollow2985]

I never did trust coworkers. They are just that, coworkers. Nothing more. Never share anything with them.

[@themartinblairproject]

Exactly 👍

[@turnne]

HR investigations can be tricky. I had seen how the company I worked for at the time treated people who got on the " wrong side". I saw the writing on the wall for me..and I documented emails and conversations for least a year.I sent them all to my personal email address and the company emails " auto deleted " in 90 days. In the end they paid me a settlement...You always have to watch for yourself and dont think for a minute that HR is for you. Their job is to protect the company

[@MoorDragon]

So true...A co-worker of mine whom I thought was a great person and friend threw me under the bus, criticizing my work to a supervisor. i never did anything to her to warrant this so needless to say I was totally shocked that she would do that to me.

[@themartinblairproject]

I am so sorry to hear this happened to you. Yes. Trust no co- worker as like I said in the video, you’re only “friends” as in friendly while working together. Those people are not true friends. Thank you for sharing this though. 🙏

[@MikaelLansfalken]

So true Martin, co-workers are NOT family! I left a job after 7+ years (teaching) 20+ years (own business), I only have contact with 2 people (actually customers of mine who offered me a Director position, which I declined) from that time. Co-workers, most customers, etc., they just do NOT give a hoot. Once you're out the door, you're forgotten. Family First, for sure! And yes, I agree 100%, I go to work to make money, not to make friends. The sooner everyone learns that, the better for yourself. You're definitely on your own, so draw up your boundaries based on YOUR OWN priorities.

[@jamesm5547]

Very true. It's not that every coworker doesn't "like you", it's simply a relationship created due to proximity. Once you are gone (or the other person is removed), the relationship is also gone. I experienced a real since of friendship loss when I lost my job of almoat 20 years. I quickly discovered that of the dozens of "work" friends I had, once I was gone, those 30 contacts became 2 after three months. Like Martin said, it's just how it is. So don't neglect your family and childhood friends, when life changes catch you, they are then ones you'll need to have for support (emotional support gets us through tough times). Be well all

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you for sharing your experience with us James. Like you said it’s just the way it is. Best of the New Year to you and your family. 🙂🙏

[@steveg6978]

I was witness to one of the worst examples of this in my corporate life. A new corporate division was forming and they were looking for the person to run the show. Big time salary and power. The guy that was up for it got accused of sexual harassment by a women whom wanted the position also. Eventually, he was cleared by HR, but the damage was done. He didn't get the position, she got sidelined and them fired several months later. His wife left him for several months with the kids, but the got it back together when he was cleared. The whole situation was 100% pure (S) for the guy. It wrecked the whole team, some backed him others ran and hid. I was fortunate, being single I had less on the line getting involved, others told me to shut my mouth and play it safe. I took another position a year later knowing I probably was marked for backing him.

[@themartinblairproject]

@@steveg6978 I am sorry Steve for the late reply as I just saw this now. Wow. Thank you for sharing this experience. Yes. Workplace drama can be wild and entertaining or just sad and unfortunate. Thank you again for sharing and I hope you continue to come back and share 😃🙏 Martin

[@martinhunt6004]

Unfortunately there are a few cliques in most workplaces. These type of people will not let you inside their special group and instead will work together to keep you down and viewed as a negative person to management. I find these insecure types have a paranoid personality and usually lead very tedious lives. I much prefer to keep my distance.

[@themartinblairproject]

@@martinhunt6004 So true. Thank you for sharing your experience.

[@archaney]

Thanks for the video. I wholeheartedly concur. Two years ago I retired from a company I had worked at for about 11 years. They had an open office environment in office rooms that held 100s of people so I knew a lot of guys. I busted my tail supporting others and when I left I was given some nice accolades. However, I only hear from one person on any kind of regular basis. Truth is that I was older than most of my co-workers and geographic differences made it hard for us to do stuff together even if we wanted to and most of us just wanted to do our jobs and go home. One thing that was a little surprising is that I retired from the Army National Guard (US military reserves) in 2011. Many of the guys I had known for the better part of 20 years and had gone to war with in Iraq. I wasn't hanging out friends with anyone because I lived a long way away from most of them but I did think I would at least get the occasional phone call or text to see how I was doing. Nope. Truth is, just like your video said, they moved on with their lives. I'm not bitter about that, it just is the way it is.

[@themartinblairproject]

Thanks for sharing your experience and I hope the New Year finds you well. Yes. It’s nothing to be bitter about but I wanted to do this video to hopefully let newer workers understand this is how the work world is so be prepared and to also get feedback from folks like you who’ve been through this. Have a blessed New Year 😃🙏

[@luckislonggone9941]

Martin, you nailed it! One of your best videos, informative and dead on, when I was forced to retire 1 1/2 years ago, after working with them for 38 years I never hear from anyone.

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you so much for your kind and encouraging words. I so appreciate it 🙂🙏

[@Antoinette14273]

As Martin said very well; work is situational. Once out of the office people do not give you a second thought.

[@premavida]

True dat. I am binge-watching you in the background of some tasks today & just become more and more impressed by you. In my case, at work as a flight attendant, it would be so easy to go out with the crews on layovers in exciting and new places. But I have a strict rule that I have had for almost 20 yrs now. Never again. I think that individually, ppl can be great, but the work culture (to varying degrees) mostly always become a bit toxic, and definitely quite artifical--for all the reasons you mentioned and more. I am polite, helpful, genuine, even warm, but never social. And I think my rule is golden IMHO. Thank you again.

[@themartinblairproject]

I thank you for your ongoing continued support. You are a flight attendant? That is so wonderful. I follow and watch a lot of flight attendants channels and also airline pilots like Flying with big Ern and many more. You could do a channel about flight attendant life. That would be great content. Again I appreciate you so much my dear friend 😃🙏❤️

[@premavida]

@@themartinblairproject Yes, I have a few KZbin channel ideas. My husband is 1st World Big Wave Surf Champion & we hold health and longevity courses together bc of my side designations, so that would be one theme for example. Just a matter of starting and not thinking too much about it I guess. I need to learn from ppl like you who are so natural and inspirational. Respectful kudos to YOU!

[@themartinblairproject]

@@premavida One of my earliest videos was called “Why my KZbin Videos Suck and Yours Do too: Maybe 😆 I talked about learning to talk on camera and learning to edit etc. I think I’ve gotten more comfortable talking to the camera now and even talking to it in public 🙏😃

[@AzucarRay]

So true! A place of employment is not a family! It’s a place of business. So people should stop acting surprised when a business makes a business decision. I’m retired now (thank God), but I found that when I was working, even minding my own business, doing my job, and staying out of drama wasn’t enough! I remember one woman telling supervision that I was “aloof” 😮 WTF? How about she mind her own business and focus on doing her job like I was doing??? So glad not to have to work anymore!

[@themartinblairproject]

@@AzucarRay Agreed

[@DEKKD]

So great to see the number of subscribers increasing for such an authentic guy.

[@themartinblairproject]

@@DEKKD Thank you so much 😃🙏

[@cobrakai9969]

The best youtubers are the ones who maintain authenticity. I couldn't care less about budget or production.

[@rplace8737]

@@cobrakai9969 I agree completely.

[@tarawalton6778]

​@@cobrakai9969Agree. 💯

[@Jaimeshady]

It’s true.A girl I worked with was texting me venting. I was stupid vented back. I won’t lie I was stupid thinking I had a friend.Our boss wanted to promote her because he thought she was soooooo smart. she showed him our messages trying to get my job. Never trust them EVER.

[@themartinblairproject]

Absolutely don’t trust any co-workers. I’m sorry that happened to you but thank you for sharing your experience.

[@natalianakoriakova8084]

100% agree. Not only your co workers are not your friends, they are often your competition or even enemies, depending on the situation, although they might appear nice, smily or friendly. Professtional, to the point, nothing else. Dont you ever ever share your personal stuff at work. You may share gardening or repair tips, but that's about it. Martin, get well soon. Take good care of your health.

[@themartinblairproject]

@@natalianakoriakova8084 Very true. Thank you for your support and encouragement 😃🙏

[@tarawalton6778]

Sage advice.

[@aatoys001]

this "thought model" is what eventually leads people old in their 70s living in isolation, always afraid to trust gripping in fear protecting our resources.

[@natalianakoriakova8084]

@aatoys001 I don't know if you're too young or just not very bright. Otherwise, you'd know old age isolation isn't caused by a lack of work friends. You have no clue about life or what drives it. Hopefully, you'll learn someday.

[@rickygrand1405]

Great true advice. So much back stabbing and snitching behind the scenes. Cover your ass. Never be the fall guy.

[@althunder4269]

Even my so-called friends are not really my friends. Only my family is family.

[@irmaramirez1374]

Thanks!

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you so much my friend. I appreciate you so much. You are Amazing 🤩 ❤️😃🙏

[@tomTom-lb5cu]

Work is work. We don’t get a job usually to make friendships we get a job to earn money to survive and support our family. If we make a couple work friends that’s good if not that’s fine too. If we had to be friends with everybody we worked with it would be forced friendships and that just ain’t right imho. Heck I’ve been here in my neighborhood for 2 1/2 years now and even though I see the neighbors close by they aren’t friends. People just want to be left alone. Something changed in life once smart phones came about and Facebook and texting and not much real communication.

[@InvestingwithDana]

Yes. You have friends and you have acquaintances. Not the same.

[@jane9195]

I appreciate you're great information and I totally agree with you 100 percent.

[@goodmoneyfamgoodmoneyfam9671]

This is a GOLD. Hopefully younger employees come across this and learn something.

[@themartinblairproject]

@@goodmoneyfamgoodmoneyfam9671 Thank you so much ❤️😃🙏

[@strothermartin5368]

You are so right. You hit the nail on the head.🎯 Bullseye. I never socialize with them either.

[@Patty747]

I absolutely agree. I only heard a few times from coworkers after I retired. For the last year, I have heard from none of them. I unfriended a bunch on Facebook, those who I considered more or less friends. I only have a few that I include, but even so have received no phone calls or texts from them. I'm retired almost 3 years now.

[@themartinblairproject]

@@Patty747 Thank you Patty for sharing. Yes for me as well. No one at my former employer’s ever reached out to ask if I was okay when I got fired. Sad state of affairs.

[@kathykochersperger6848]

You are right about this. I have 3 friends I worked with who dont respond at all or take forever to get back to you, so I'm done!

[@ВиталийСлонов-ч4ъ]

Perfect timing, as far as I'm concerned, sir. I'm two months shy of a week into a new job, so this will come in handy going forward. I'm normally a trusting friendly guy, taking people at face value, so I'll try to bear your advice/tips in mind. Thanks for sharing. Subbed. Merry Christmas to one and all! 🎅🌲

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you so much. Just keep this in the back of your mind. It’s wonderful to be friendly and it is possible to create lasting friendships but just be cautious who you confide personal information to as people can turn on you quicker than you can imagine. Thank you for subscribing. Have a blessed New Year ❤️😃🙏

[@themartinblairproject]

Oh and I hope you had a very Merry Christmas 🎄 😃🙏

[@Tonesnob72]

these are facts and it’s the ones that cozy up to your the fastest they will be the ones who throw you under the bus first. After working with other for 30 years what i learned is dont reveal your personal life habits etc. Only discuss completely safe information as everything will eventually get thrown back at you. It tough not to let down your guard but unless you want it to bite you in the ass don’t do it.

[@anthonievanriessen]

Same here. Tricky employees and bosses everywhere walking over hard working honest bodies

[@themartinblairproject]

Absolutely 👍

[@johnmcquaid7524]

I agree. Good boundaries are a two-way street. My outlook: life’s journey can be tough. If you find someone that is good to you; appreciate them.

[@themartinblairproject]

Well put John 😃🙏

[@winxtra2892]

100% agree ... learnt the hard way..

[@ccook3659]

Very True Martin!!!

[@Canadianupriser]

Your points are so dead on. I experienced this exactly as you describe it.

[@themartinblairproject]

I’m happy you enjoyed my video but sad to hear you experienced that terrible situation.

[@dynamo3059]

they *can* be friends but aren't that out of the box. like u said what role ur in dictates who you come into contact with. in most cases they are "situational friends", as soon as the situation goes, they go as well. if you don't hang out with them outside of work at the very least they are absolutely NOT your friends!

[@user-if2ne2tq8b]

Well said Martin. People are there for the money, not much else.

[@max11een]

I didn't get a notification for this video! Thank you for making it and wishing you a speedy recovery!

[@themartinblairproject]

Oh. I wonder why. I’m happy you enjoyed it and I’m feeling much better today (Dec 29) I wish you a wonderful and prosperous New Year ❤️😃🙏

[@pete8516]

Office gossip is the worst...just stayed focused on your job

[@LarchiDuchesse]

This is very true ! Stay blessed

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you 🙏

[@SesameStreetRacingChannel]

Good video, Sir...When working with people...always assume that they are making mental notes about you...some folks use this info to gain favor with the owner of the company...they may stab you in the back...and if you "hate the boss" or they hate the boss...don't get caught up in any of that...they may simply be baiting you into something..."When you go to work...get to work...and leave all the crap in the gutter...where it belongs".The workplace is not a clubhouse where you and your "brothers" meet averyday...it is "every man (and woman) for himself/herself" AND...even when you work hard, conduct yourself ethically and contribute greatly to a company...they still may let you go...life in the workplace is not fair.

[@onemashedlife4313]

Hi Martin! Chris in Dartmouth NS. Good discussion. I’m no expert on KZbin but I think you don’t need to worry about your videos length. We like you and even long form videos would be great. No need to apologize or tell us you’ll keep it short. Subs are actually not necessarily the most important. It’s views and watch time. Glad you are doing well and looking forward to your next video. Keep going!

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you so much Chris, I really appreciate the feedback 😃🙏

[@DeeDee-he1cc]

No truer words were ever spoken. Co workers are not your friends and the friendships disappear fast when tested.

[@themartinblairproject]

@@DeeDee-he1cc Sadly true.

[@trinimungz]

My co worker who would come to my house every weekend, had to write me up when he became my supervisor ,so remember every man for himself at work.

[@annberlin5811]

Thats cold

[@trinimungz]

@annberlin5811 ,just to show just co workers

[@themartinblairproject]

Oh that’s harsh. Yes exactly

[@trinimungz]

@themartinblairproject yep that's the world we live in my friend

[@goodmoneyfamgoodmoneyfam9671]

Shoot!!! I learned this back in highschool. And I'm 48. We are cool at work. But once I drive past that gate after my shift I do not know you lol.

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you for sharing that experience. 😃

[@tomTom-lb5cu]

I’m not on social media but I think there’s a lot of people who don’t realize once you post something that it’s there forever floating around . I remember back in 1999 when I was working for a large pharmaceutical company they came done and had a meeting for us men to say anything we say to a woman is to only be work related . They said even if she has a nice dress of jacket or anything we were not allowed to even compliment her. Well after that a woman in the workplace never looked the same to me. Then later when I changed jobs and worked at a university and I was a steady outside worker never inside the buildings they said don’t say anything to girls / women because if they make a complaint about you you will be fired first and questions asked later. But I never had a problem with either companies policies but sometimes it felt like you were walking on thin ice.

[@TruthAplomado]

This man oozes with charm. Very easy going. Have you tried applying for casting calls. You have a very cinematic face.

[@hazell1593]

I wish more people would realize this. I dont go to any work functions...ever. People will throw you under the bus in a heartbeat!!

[@themartinblairproject]

Absolutely. Thanks for commenting.

[@lawrencenachtrab735]

I agree in corporate job but not in my job as fire service although maybe not every person

[@hairynews1973]

100% What you say. Hope you feel better now

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you so much 😃🙏

[@JohnSmith-g1g1f]

Hi Martin. I really appreciated this video. I hope you make more videos like this one. I think you have a lot of wisdom to share about the professional world. Your 40+ years of knowledge is very helpful.

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you so much. I really appreciate you saying that! 🙂🙏

[@Intentional-frugality]

I work in an office that has no boundaries and when I set my boundaries I have been told I’m Mr Grinch 😂 I’m absolutely 👍🏽 okay either way that keeps me out from drama 🎭 too 😂

[@themartinblairproject]

I think that’s a great way to handle it! 😃

[@biashacker]

There was a time when you could trust your friends.......................,back in the 1970's. Those days are long gone.

[@themartinblairproject]

@@biashacker Absolutely. I was a young man in the 70’s Listening to Luckenbach Texas by Waylon Jennings on the Jukebox in the bar in my hometown. Great memories.

[@ritajames7797]

Thank you Martin. Very true and any company who claims that they are "family"... well that raises a red flag for me. Co-workers are simply there to earn money and keep paying the bills. Good if you get along well with co-workers whilst you are with them and it may be a bonus if, like your wife, you can maintain a friendship with some, but this is not a given. Hope you get over your cold very soon - perhaps before the New Year! Wishing you good health and joy in 2025.

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you so much Rita. I really appreciate your support and kind words. Yes hopefully my cold clears up completely soon. It’s getting better slowly. I wish you a blessed New Year as well 🙂❤️🙏

[@poppopkustomkars1234]

Martin. Hang in there you will do fine. I was laid off at 60 it happens to many of us I was preparing for years since I saw it happening in all my corporate jobs. Started reducing debt in my 50s. 68 now and loving life with family. So many extra things to do to make money I scrap, sell stuff on marketplace, substitute teach, do odd jobs You’ll be fine with the right positive attitude that you have!!

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you for sharing your experience and your words of encouragement. 🙂🙏

[@poppopkustomkars1234]

@ you’re welcome. Try to get rid of that car payment. Uber will wear that car out fast. Try to find something that doesn’t require an asset School bus drivers are in huge demand here in NJ. $30 an hour with benifits

[@themartinblairproject]

@ Thank you for your support and encouragement.

[@cobrakai9969]

I would say 99.9% of the coworkers are never your friends, but I am living proof that SOME are friends. I will always defend those who have treated me with respect and friendship. A few have continued close friendship years after they left the company. Maybe I am lucky.

[@footiefan51]

So true! I learned the hard way recently. Never again.

[@themartinblairproject]

@@footiefan51 I hope you’re going to be okay. I wish you all the best and prayers for you and your family 🙂🙏

[@Rita-ic9tv]

I am blessed that my two closest friends are former coworkers. But generally speaking, I agree with you!

[@DALDO135]

Totally agree !!!

[@aatoys001]

Friendship requires investment in time and compassion. We are people and we need to each other, to help and bless each other. There are always selfish coworkers, but we can't let them discourage us from taking the risk or being good to others. We have to take the high-road - this is our humanity. When we meet others, it's not only what we say and do, but it's how we make them feel. So someone screwed you over, instead of setting them straight, have some compassion and empathy. Not everyone has been trained to be nice, and respect others even though they are mature adults. Don't treat people like "transactions". We're all here on this earth for a short time, support one another, take the risk to be transparent and build personal connections and not treat anyone as a business transactions. Selfishness is a guarantee to a life of isolation and fear. Step out from fear, grudge, resentment and let the light within you shine.

[@themartinblairproject]

@@aatoys001 Thank you for sharing. I appreciate your insight and thoughts. 😃🙏

[@maryellendoran8806]

I have maintained some real friendships from people I worked with. They are keepers. But many coworkers will stab you in the back and gossip about you and others. After you retire, you will find that most of these "friends" fade away. Work was really the only glue. There was nothing deeper. Being cordial is okay but don't think it is deeper. I also see many people moving on from workplaces in a year or two. There is not a lot of longevity anymore.

[@kamiwatkins5653]

Great video!

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you 🙏 ❤️😃

[@lauraweiss7875]

I have a former colleague who is like a sister to me. The whole team got replaced by underpaid folks in a “more cost effective country” so we were all in the same boat. I still regularly keep in touch with a few other folks on our team. We all network for each other. We all worked and lived in different cities so we didn’t regularly socialize apart from occasional in person work meetings - but we were all very close. My former boss is also still in contact and helped me get my current job. Not everybody is a jerk out there. Maybe it’s just a big city mentality vs where you live in a smaller community. In big cities, you need other people to have your back to survive. It’s not every man for himself rugged individualism. Hope you feel better soon!

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you for your perspective and for sharing Laura ❤️😃🙏

[@flowers52314]

It's like that everywhere. I have worked both in a small town and Dallas.

[@TheUtuber999]

This sounds like trauma bonding.

[@themartinblairproject]

@@TheUtuber999 Possibly. Everyone needs to feel belonging.

[@ShowMeTrucker]

I have been with one company for 33 years. Every one of my original crew has died do illness or old age. There has been so much turnover over the years and everyone that is gone was never spoken about again. Now there was one guy I trained 25 years ago. I would call him a friend. He retired 10 years ago and we still talk over the phone every week. But everyone else in the company could care less that I exist. I do my job, I remain friendly, I don't give anyone a hard time and I do my job to the best of my abilities. For that I get paid and receive some benefits. I go there because that's how I make money and that's the reason why I show up every damn day for the last 33 years. One day soon, I will retire and they will no longer exist to me either. I would say that's an exchange.

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you for sharing your experience. It’s kinda sad that we give our whole lives to employers and in the end nobody cares once we’re gone.

[@nic6208]

Great and it’s so hot in 🇦🇺🌞🌞

[@themartinblairproject]

Ha ha 😆

[@BamaJoeBob]

Hope you've recovered from your cold.

[@DS-mw8yu]

I worked for a family run business and I had those issues where the boss was fabricating a reasons file to fire me. The HR that I had to place my complaint was actually her daughter in law. HR should be a neutral person outside of a family run business. Co-workers, you have to keep at arms length, you can be friendly ... but not friends.

[@themartinblairproject]

Sorry to hear this happened to you. At my former employer the boss who fired me was also the HR person. Total conflict of interest as he was subtly abusive and the person you’d complain to. Thank you for sharing your experience.

[@postedback]

HR are always employed by a company, paid by a company and serves only companies interest. Why do americans expect it to be neutral? Where did it come from? That's worker unions are for to look for your interest.

[@deborahrodriguez-castinado9536]

You have the same on air presence as Fred Rogers, and I mean that as a huge compliment!!!!

[@themartinblairproject]

That’s amazing Deborah. Thank you so very much ☺️❤️🙏

[@deborahrodriguez-castinado9536]

@ of course! I’m an Author, Martin. With your genuine authenticity, and noteworthy experience, you may find it appropriate to write a book, as well. I’d be happy to refer you to a few resources if you think you might be interested in looking into doing something like that.

[@themartinblairproject]

@@deborahrodriguez-castinado9536 Thank you Deborah. I’m a published author as well. I cover that in other videos. My books are available on Amazon, eBay and other sites. 🙏😃

[@deborahrodriguez-castinado9536]

@@themartinblairproject that’s awesome! I just discovered your videos on Christmas break. Looking forward to watching, and reading!!

[@themartinblairproject]

@@deborahrodriguez-castinado9536 I’m so happy to have you here Deborah. I’m trying to create a bit of a community here so welcome. I hope you come back often. By watching some of my other videos you might discover some interesting things about me such as I’m a competitor in Strongman in my 60’s at a high level. ❤️🙏😃

[@daraccent]

Hi Martin: So true Martin. Working with people for over 3 years and one would think that some kind of a friendly relationship has formed, but absolutely not. These people are the very people who will talk against you. This is another example of why I will try this year to get Out of the Rat Race once and for all! Anyway, Enjoy your videos Matin! Thanks for posting! Take Care!

[@themartinblairproject]

I'm glad you enjoyed the video and I hope you have a great year. ❤️😃🙏

[@maureencasey7500]

I can hear perfectly.

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you Maureen. My voice is scratchy but I got my message out 😃🙏

[@pattydixon6510]

I know this is a popular opinion and it is so often true. I get it yet I don't entirely agree. We don't have our third places to meet one another anymore. Isolation is a societal problem. Work is often where we find our friends, people we see daily. Not everybody is bad or malicious. When I struggled with cancer last year, I realized my friends are mainly people I worked with. I am careful but I have met some of the greatest friends from work, including my partner. I think being careful is key.

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you for your feedback. Yes it certainly can be true that a friendship can be developed at work.

[@tarawalton6778]

I found this out the HARD way. 😢

[@themartinblairproject]

@@tarawalton6778 I’m so sorry to hear this. I hope you are ok now though ❤️🙏

[@txkrussell]

It can definitely be a messy situation. Especially a bunch of women working together...and I am a woman. Lol

[@LiquidWrench2]

Great video Martin, they always seem to get rid of the best workers, don't they? Hmmm

[@themartinblairproject]

You’re welcome. Thank you for watching and commenting 😃🙏

[@WestcoastButcherBlock]

I totally agree - I worked 11 years and never really hung out with those folks. Currently my business this is still true today.

[@themartinblairproject]

Same here. Back in the mid 80’s I went to house parties with a few co-workers but I never thought of them as true friends that I would trust with my life.

[@thanemlesstrue-arrow5724]

I'm in my mid 50s and was laid off 6 months ago. Financially, it's pretty tough, even with EI. And I'm a person who saves his money. Northern Alberta isn't what it used to be.

[@themartinblairproject]

I hear you. I’m in Edmonton and it’s an ongoing struggle to pay bills but I keep going forward as I have no real alternative. I hope you find blessings in the New Year. 🙏

[@Tushin-h2z]

When did northern Alberta start going south? What do you figure is causing it?

[@thanemlesstrue-arrow5724]

@@Tushin-h2z I'm not an overly political guy, but I think the government has something to do with it, especially this one. They canceled a permit to create a new oil sands site, and it would have been a big help to Fort McMurray job wise. Instead, lots of layoffs locally the last several years. They also canceled two pipeline projects and almost canceled TMX.

[@Tushin-h2z]

I recall an interview with a retired Marine Corps captain who decided to take a job in Afghanistan during the war working for a company out of Singapore doing irrigation (as a civilian). He noted that after talking to the local authorities/Taliban they were able to work out in the open without an armed escort with no issues. In contrast he pointed out that if they had tried to do that in Iraq they would have lasted about one week. One week because that is about how long it would take the locals to "figure out who the highest bidder is." It made me think of what the difference might be. Both countries are Islamic and third world. So what might make Iraqis so opportunistically predacious (and presumably sycophantic otherwise) where as Afghans seem to have a kind of honour culture were you can in fact take them at their word. Reminded me of what happened to Marcus Luttrell. A whole village willing to fight the Taliban to the death, not I suspect because they love America, but because of some sense of honour that the local Taliban was infringing upon. I watched a speech were Luttrell mentions Micheal Murphy, who won the Medal of Honour attempting to make a radio call for help from an exposed hilltop where he was killed. "The first thing I'm going to do after I die is tell my brothers that I love them" *Marcus pauses, adopts a serious tone of voice: "Men bond in adversity; you do know that right?"

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you for sharing that information.

[@Tushin-h2z]

@@themartinblairproject Thank you for the video. It made me think.

[@nbaballers2277]

I learned this at P&0, one co worker tried getting me fired for having a physical disability onboard the ship i worked on and went behind my back to the manager which ended up me winning my job back after a 6 month investigation. Also when the bosses fired everybody without notice in 20 mins. You can have friends at work but just got to act like a airhead at work and let nothing effect you.

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you for sharing your experience with us. Yes I recommend just working and getting a long with your co-workers but know that most are not true friends.

[@nbaballers2277]

​@@themartinblairprojectyes, most co workers are there for a paycheck like you are and some will throw you under the bus if it suits them. I found my best friend at work, but that was only because I spent most my time onboard a ship.

[@axminster6]

I only know America, but age discrimination is illegal like any other discrimination. It doesn't mean much to employers, but they are not supposed to ask how old you are, what your religion is, or other such questions. They often will because the employer thinks they are bulletproof, but you have no need to answer these questions, and in general I believe it is none of their business. That being said, I believe it's perfectly fine if your resume only details your very most recent job, your schooling/certification and most relevant experience, which sound like they started in the early 2000s. I am from the US and haven't had a job as professional as Health and Safety Inspector, but I have left notifications on my resume, like "additional experience, or additional information available upon request." I really believe getting in for an actual interview, face-to-face can make up for a lot of things, especially in the culture of 2024.

[@themartinblairproject]

Thanks for sharing your experience. 🙏

[@MasterAndyWan]

I think this also greatly depends on the type of person you are. If you're a very self-centered person, and/or you constantly expect the worst from people under the guise of "being careful," you'll have a very difficult time establshing genuine friendships in ANY environment. I have made many forever friends in every occupation I have ever had - friendships that hold to this day.

[@themartinblairproject]

Great perspective. Thanks for sharing this.

[@robtk3]

My mantra at work; I'm like an IRS agent. I'm not here to make friends and I intend on being paid.

[@themartinblairproject]

Great mantra 😃

[@ricmc9725]

Spot on. Again

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you 🙏 😃

[@roxannedunlop1044]

Not always true at all. You just have to see. But yeah, it can be difficult to stay in touch as life goes on in different directions for both.

[@maryu.8633]

Awe the "best dad ever mug" ❤

[@themartinblairproject]

You noticed Mary ☺️❤️

[@derekken4241]

Keep it up big mart dawg!

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you so much for watching my videos! 😃🙏

[@Methadone4Life]

Yes...everyone is out for themselves these days. No honor whatsoever!

[@williamdavis8955]

It's better working alone, I had a lot of guard jobs that it was just me . Sure cuts down on gossip!

[@kennymartin379]

Our plants has been off for Christmas going back on new years i don't won't to go back that day what should I tell my boss for a day off without him getting mad I just Don't wanna go back that day

[@themartinblairproject]

I hope you can evaluate your total situation including financial, emotional and mental. If your job is causing so much mental and emotional distress then is it worth going in every day? Are you financially able to quit and get something else? Are you and your family (are you married with children etc) able to move to a different state if it’s too expensive where you live. Start having conversations with your loved ones. Start making plans for the next 24 months. This is the life we have so maybe we need to rethink our priorities. God bless you and keep you safe 🙏

[@sharonWT0804]

Hope you feel better soon. Rest and relax, your viewers will be here when you are healthy.

[@themartinblairproject]

Thank you so much Sharon 😊 🙏 You are always so kind and supportive ❤️😃🙏

[@Random-ln5mt]

So glad I'm self employed for the last 9 years and don't have to deal with all this anymore

[@themartinblairproject]

You’re in a great position. Thanks for commenting 😃🙏

[@cjengland2365]

Also HR is not on your side, they work for the employer not the employee.

[@themartinblairproject]

@@cjengland2365 I will be doing a video about HR soon.

[@BF2021-kf8xz]

It always surprised me how there are people at every job who act like they need this social life with co-workers. In my last job there was a guy who acted nice but was a snake. He would buddy up with the office manager and gossip about others. I’m sure there were a few lies told about me that made my position there difficult. I eventually left though never knew what this snake was saying about me.

[@themartinblairproject]

That is horrible. Thank you for sharing your experience with us. I wish you a blessed New Year 🙏

[@ccook3659]

Usually theres a clique of fools!

[@CaseyLouis]

Family first. Coworkers third.

[@themartinblairproject]

Absolutely 😃🙏

[@adlrvet5313]

agree

[@FredBridgens]

Absolutely they are not

[@themartinblairproject]

Absolutely 👍 😃

[@dyates6380]

Morning Martin, good to see you again. I thoroughly enjoyed the vast majority of my coworkers. Of course, after 25 years and literally hundreds of people I encountered, there is a VERY small number of them I don't miss, and I'm sure if you asked them, it'd be mutual. Haha. I did find out, however (even though I heard this for years) that once you retire, despite having very good rapport with so many of them, the relationship sort of dries up. Initially we would keep in touch over texts and even get together for that Christmas drink, but even that goes away after a while. It's not anyone's fault or purposeful doing, but rather human nature. Simply put, it's NOT like we don't like our old coworkers anymore, but it's simply true what they say about work friends being not your "regular" friends. I don't have a lot of friends that aren't from work, so it's a little different for me. Happy New Year my friend.

[@themartinblairproject]

Hello my dear friend. I’m sorry for this late reply as I didn’t see this until now. Yes it is kind of sad when our old friends from work etc. fade away but as you say it’s only human nature. I wish you a wonderful New Year full of love, prosperity and good health. Cheers 🥳❤️😃🙏 Martin

[@LloydintheAmericas]

If you change a few words you could and are describing a majority of american churchs to a tee. Shallow friends and never hear from them when you’re gone.

[@themartinblairproject]

Yes. Sadly that is true as well. We’ve experienced something similar in our church many years ago. Thank you 🙏

[@donmac6690]

There are good & bad people everywhere including suck-holes and rats in your work environments. The only one you can depend on is yourself and hopefully your family.

[@themartinblairproject]

My point exactly. The only way your company is family is if you marry the bosses daughter or son 😝 and even then I would not trust them.

[@jbworkman2218]

Most workplace people you should never trust always let them talk about themselves. I don't understand why they act the way they do its weird.

[@themartinblairproject]

Absolutely. Thank you for commenting 😃🙏

[@Richard-b4f8b]

A lot of KZbinrs will say this is your channel we're all a family here😂 that's not true

[@themartinblairproject]

😝