GLC- When I race, I usually have more than one goal.
The stretch goal - that is the elusive one when all the stars are aligned, the weather is perfect and me too and I put down the perfect race. (I haven't had one of those in 5 years of doing duathlons). The next goal is to PB one of the legs of the event. I tend to be a bit weak on the 2nd run - so that is always a good goal for me. Sometimes, depending on the course it will be to PB the bike- whatever... And sometimes it will be just to finish and have fun.
I'm doing my first Olympic distance in June. I already know that having fun will be my goal.
Anyway, the point is to have several goals - you can always take away some learning from a race.
I think you did pretty good to PB two legs of your tri. Nothing to be ashamed of!
"You can't get what you want till you know what you want." Joe Jackson
2006 Cannondale Feminine/Ultegra/Jett
2012 Trek Speed Concept 9.5/Ultegra/saddle TBD