Most people struggle with health and fitness not because they aren’t trying hard enough, but because they’re trying to do everything at once. They focus on perfection instead of direction. They jump into aggressive meal plans, hardcore workouts, or elaborate routines that don’t fit their life—and then blame themselves when they can’t sustain them.
But success doesn’t come from doing everything right. It comes from doing the right thing—the thing that moves you forward, fits where you are right now, and that you can actually do consistently.
The right thing is different for everyone. More often than not, we ask, Is it effective?—meaning, is it moving you in the direction you want to go or solving a problem you need solved? It’s not always easy to figure out. But when it comes to physical health and fitness, the answer almost always falls into one of four categories:
The Four Pillars of Coaching: The “Right Thing” is in Here Somewhere
If you want long-term success, you need to focus on the core habits that support your health and performance:
1. Sleep & Recovery – If you’re running on fumes, your body will fight you every step of the way. Poor sleep means poor energy, poor choices, and poor recovery. Before chasing advanced workouts or complex diets, ask: Am I sleeping enough to support my goals?
2. Nutrition – You don’t need a perfect diet; you need a sustainable approach to eating that works for you. That might mean focusing on protein intake, reducing processed foods, or simply eating meals that keep you full and satisfied instead of reaching for snacks all day.
3. Movement – You don’t have to crush intense workouts every day. What’s your entry point? Maybe it’s daily walks. Maybe it’s strength training twice a week. The best movement plan is the one you can stick with.
4. Stress Management – If you’re constantly overwhelmed, no workout or diet will fix that. Managing stress might mean setting boundaries, getting outside more, or practicing breathwork. The key is finding something that keeps your nervous system from running on high alert 24/7.
The Golden Habit Challenge: Finding the “Right What” for You
At CrossFit Northland, we launched the Golden Habit Challenge for one reason: We wanted to help people stop chasing everything and start doing something that actually matters.
The habits we focus on aren’t random. They’re the things that will move the needle—the small, foundational actions that drive big results over time. They’re built around the four pillars above, because if you dial in these basics, everything else gets easier.
Maybe for you, the right thing to focus on isn’t a strict diet—it’s just making sure you eat a solid breakfast with protein.
Maybe it’s not working out five times a week—it’s just getting in one extra session or committing to daily walks.
Maybe it’s not meditating for 30 minutes—it’s just taking three deep breaths before a meal.
Small, right things lead to big results.
Pick the Right Thing & Keep Going
If you want results, stop chasing perfection. Stop thinking you have to do all the things to be successful. Just focus on the right thing—the thing that fits where you are today and moves you toward where you want to be.
If you need help finding that right thing, we’ve got you. The Golden Habit Challenge is here to help you choose wisely and take action.
👉 Ready to start?
Check out one of our previous blog posts, create your game plan and scoreboard…and get on!
The 4 Daily Habits that Lead to Outsized Returns
Or join us for ours, starting Monday February 3rd. Sign-up here!