New Saddle New Set-up

We took a trip to REI and I got a new gel saddle. I've never used one, and I'm hoping it will relieve some saddle soreness. I don't normally get sore, but then I don't normally average 80 miles a day for six days straight. I also fixed some missing hardware that had fallen off the rear rack a few days ago (temporarily fixed with zip ties), and moved my GPS down to the handlebar, removing the extension I had been using. I went through all my bags and unloaded things I know now I won't need. And I'm not gonna lie- I'm looking for every chance to make this bike lighter. On the smallest of inclines it loses all momentum.
My back and hands have been sore, too, so I bought new gloves and adjusted the saddle some. But I have a funny feeling that the only way to avoid pain and discomfort would be to... stop.
At the end of the day, the hard is the fun.