Now you can focus on new goals and take your racing to another level. Plan a schedule, or a racing season. Follow a carefully thought-out plan of buildup, sharpening, racing, recovery and rest. You may want to start out conservatively, for example, intending to pick up the pace at the halfway mark, or in the final miles. Taper and peak.
Tapering means to cut back on running in the time before a race.
Peaking means planning your training and racing to produce your best possible performance. Focus and concentrate. You may have let your mind wander in earlier races. Now try to pay attention to such factors as pace, your breathing and the runners next to you. Understand what you are capable of through training, but don't lock yourself into a predetermined pace.