I feel differently every day I get up and decide to ride. If I am by myself and riding for fitness, some days I ride fast and compete with myself, and other days I don't. I usually end up feeling like I'm going fast and having a good time when I ride with my group or with Hirakikabou, even if I'm not going any faster than normal. It's the fun company that counts. When I ride with my 2 other woman friends, I know I will be stopping at corners or at the top of hills to wait for them; I just see this as a chance to slow down. When I am alone with DH sometimes he pushes me a bit and I am feeling it, but other times we decide we just want to ride slowly.
When the thought of going fast or even getting on my road bike is annoying me, I take out my Jamis Coda and ride to a farm stand, do errands, or meet someone for lunch. I haven't done this half as much this year, as it's been so damn hot in the middle of the day, when I usually do this, I've been at the pond, instead. And if cycling isn't thrilling me, I go for a walk or hike.
This way, I stay fresh and in shape. There's riding for different purposes and I enjoy each one. I don't look at my average except for when I ride alone or with DH.
I've tried riding without the chamois and I just can't stand the feel of it. Same with being clipped in. I rode a few times in regular shoes and my feet went flying off of the pedals. But, I do wear more urban type riding clothes, with a liner under for my errands and it's a whole different feeling.