I don't track my performance in any way-- I just ride. In an urban setting, I average 10-13 mph. Speeds go up of I move out of town of course.

If you're inclined to track your performance-- change your route to include as many hills as you can. Climbing is 90% of competitive cycling.

I only do a couple of organized century rides a year. I always start a couple hours late after all the racer types are gone and I don't really track my performance. But the first hill after 50 miles, I start running down guys with racing kits and fancy bikes because they can't climb. They took spinning classes, bought a nice bike, did some flat rides and thought they were pretty tough. One big climb disspells that myth.

So if you want to be a though guy, (and most smart cyclists I know do not ) ride hills and ride in bad weather. You'll have great mental toughness if nothing else.