Cody Alt | July 2nd, 2025
Do you ever feel like you’re running around, trying to keep up with everyone else’s plans? Parties, hangouts, family events, work drama, it’s a lot. And while you’re busy saying “yes” to all these things, shit you want to accomplish gets pushed to the back burner.
Most people stay average because they’re so caught up in the noise of other people’s priorities. You can choose to be different.
I recently heard a podcast where Naval's wife asked if he can attend birthday parties or events. Because he does not do things he doesn't want to do.
The truth is, if you want to grow, achieve your goals, and live a life you’re proud of, you need to start putting you first. That doesn’t mean being selfish. It means knowing who you are, what you want, and taking care of the one person who’s with you for life—you.
Think about it: every time you say “yes” to another event or someone else’s plan, you’re saying “no” to your own time. You could use that time to work on your goals, learn something new, or discover what makes you happy. My friends know by now that more than likely I'm not gonna go.
Distractions, endless social plans or phone scrolling, can distract you from what you really want in life.
Maybe you don't know what you want, but consuming your life with other peoples plans sure in the fuck isn't going to figure it out quicker for yourself. You have to get comfortable with spending time alone. And the more distracted you are, the harder it is to move forward.
Most people don’t even realize they’re stuck in this cycle. They go to parties, binge-watch shows, or get caught up in other people’s drama, and before they know it, years have passed, and they’re still in the same spot. You don’t want that to be you.
One of the best ways to break free from distractions is to spend time alone. Yup, just you and your thoughts. It might sound boring or even a little scary, but it’s powerful. When you’re alone, you can start to understand who you are and what you really want out of life.
I spend a lot of time alone, especially early in the mornings, and it's become my favorite part of the day. Try this: grab a notebook and start journaling. Write down your thoughts, your dreams, or even what’s stressing you out. It doesn’t have to be perfect—just let it flow.
I am on my 8th Journal now which is roughly 3.5 years of inner work. Journaling helps you clear your mind and discover things about yourself you didn’t even know.
Another great way to grow is by reading. Pick up a book that inspires you or teaches you something new. It could be about personal growth, a skill you want to learn, or even a story that expands your imagination. Reading opens your mind and helps you think bigger picture.
Everything worth knowing in life is in the pages. You just have to do the work.
I have never traveled alone but decided to head to Europe by myself. Which is something even 2 years ago I wouldn't have been able to do because I was too self-conscious. Going to dinners alone and the inner dialogue "what are people thinking", "do they think I'm weird?" amongst a bunch of other shit I would make up in my head.
The funny thing is, If I see someone at dinner by themselves and I actually think the opposite of those things, but those were the things I would tell myself.
Moral to the story is, whatever they're saying. Who gives a fuck. I feel confident and know myself better than ever. A stranger's opinion won't change that.
Your body is your home for life, so treat it right. You only get one. Eating healthy, exercising, and sleeping well are not just for looks. They help you feel good and give you the energy you need. When you put your health first, you’re telling yourself, “I’m worth it.”
Start small. Go for a walk a few times a week. Drink more water. Choose a salad over fries sometimes. Little choices add up and make a big difference. When you feel strong and healthy, you’re more confident to tackle your goals.
Here’s a tough one: you need to start saying “no” to things that don’t help you grow. That might mean skipping a party to work on a project or turning down a last-minute plan to have some quiet time. It’s not about cutting people out of your life; it’s about making space for your life. If someone doesn't respect that, then you don't want to be friends with them anyways.
When you focus on your own priorities, you’ll start to see progress. Maybe you want to start a business, learn a new skill, or feel happier in your own skin. Whatever it is, you’ll never get there if you’re always distracted by everyone else’s plans.
Spending time alone, journaling, reading, and taking care of your health will help you realize something amazing. You are all you need. You don’t need to follow the crowd or keep up with everyone else to be happy.
Your goals. Your dreams. Your close friends & your health, that's all that matters in this life I promise you. Put them first, and you'll feel stronger, clearer, and more excited about your future.
Start small, but start now. Spend a little time alone, write in a journal, read something new, or go for a walk. You’ve got one life, one body, one chance to make it count. Don’t let distractions steal that from you.
That's it for this week. Hope you enjoyed it.
Your Montana Friend,
Cody
-
If this email was forwarded to you, you can subscribe here.
Check out my recent posts on X
Subscribe to my New YouTube Channel
Follow me on Instagram
Have a positive week,
Cody
