Yes, I think the "quantitative" or "qualitative" side of running can be a stumbling block. I am one who is constantly and irrevocably concerned with quality. Thus, I pay attention to everything in every run. I am a perfect candidate for watch-less training sessions. I find it hard to ditch the watch, in some cases, though, because I like to run without having to be aware of waypoints and distances traveled. Just this morning, I felt sluggish and I was slower than usual, and hence I am somewhat dismayed. I should be happy to be running again (after a recent injury). I also have a hard time in avoiding the association between my pace/effort and my recovery/health. I have been somewhat slower in some recent runs, especially starting out, and I am starting to think that I am still not fully healed.
These things are a drag and they "play" with one's mind.