Most people assume motivation magically appears once we feel inspired. The truth is that motivation grows when we acknowledge progress. Even tiny progress. That is why intentionally looking for small wins and “bright spots” is one of the most powerful habits you can build.
At CrossFit Influence and within Influenced Nutrition, we call this practice Bright Spots. It is our weekly opportunity to pause and recognize what is going right. These moments might feel small, but they create momentum that carries you into the next week, the next challenge, and the next level of your journey.
Why Small Wins Matter
Your brain is wired to notice problems first. This is a survival instinct, but it makes it easy to overlook growth. When you intentionally shift your focus and look for things that went well, you:
• Build confidence
Each bright spot proves that you are capable. Maybe it was a heavier lift, a better food choice, showing up on a hard day, or simply being kind to yourself. Every acknowledgment strengthens your belief that you can succeed.
• Create motivation
Small wins compound. When you celebrate progress, you want more of it. You start showing up with more intention because you can clearly see that your efforts matter.
• Reduce stress
Gratitude is proven to lower stress, improve emotional health, and help you manage challenges more calmly. Bright Spots are a simple way to practice gratitude each week.
• Strengthen community
When you share wins publicly, you give others permission to share theirs. This builds a supportive, encouraging environment where everyone can thrive.
What Counts as a Bright Spot?
Anything that moved you forward this week. It does not have to be complicated or perfect.
Some examples include:
- You hit all your workouts this week.
- You got your first box jump.
- You prepped breakfast instead of rushing.
- You managed stress without turning to old habits.
- You celebrated someone else’s success.
- You finally slept well.
Even a decision that felt small in the moment can be a bright spot when you step back and look at the bigger picture.
Why We Make This a Weekly Practice
Consistency is where the magic happens. The more you practice identifying wins, the more naturally it comes. Instead of being your own worst critic, you start becoming your own biggest supporter.
Bright Spots Friday helps you:
- Notice growth you would have overlooked
- Stay excited about your journey
- Rebuild your confidence when your week feels tough
- Start your weekend with a positive mindset
And most importantly, it reminds you that progress is happening even when you do not feel it.
How to Participate
Each Friday, take a moment to think about one thing you did right. It can be big or small. It can be fitness-related, nutrition-related, or simply life-related.
Then share it.
Share it with the group.
Share it to inspire someone else.
Share it because your win matters.
Start Looking for the Good
Your journey is made of thousands of small moments. When you recognize them, you stay connected, motivated, and grounded. Bright Spots help you build a stronger mindset, a stronger community, and a stronger version of yourself.
Let’s start building that habit together. What will your next Bright Spot be?