Most times, unaware, the little things we do are counted for Righteousness. Abel's excellent sacrifice was registered as faith and righteousness, so was Noah's obedience to build an ark and Abraham's obedience to leave his hometown into a strange city.
Righteousness is tied on obedience, not obedience to our lust or the world's demands but obedience on God's word and instructions.
Genesis 15:6
And he believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness
Obtaining a state of righteousness sometimes may seem tough and a thorn because it pushes us outside of our desire and puts us in a position that looks hopeless. That's why righteousness and faith goes in line. To please our creator we do require faith , for it's by faith can we walk as just men and also please God.
The sum total of God's judgement on men rest on obedience. Trust and obey is the only way to be happy in Jesus, it's the only way to see God's love and the only way God's mind is reveal to men.
Obedience sometimes could come from making impact in the life of others as a call. When whatever you do rest in God's word, then Righteousness is exalted.