It's the same for me right now. I've made a big breakthrough as a professional, but I've been out of college since '98. That might not seem a long time for some people, but over a number of years it's challenging to stay focused. But you have to do it, and remain patient. Keep in mind that you can't work hard every day.
Rest is just as important.
Have confidence in yourself. Olympic 1500, that means someone else is the winner. The winner could be you. For young post collegians, it takes a lot of focus and sacrifice just to stay in a sport like distance running. The door to other occupations is often open a lot wider.