Easy way to drop miles

I found an easy way to cut miles off my schedule...don't run them!  My legs started tightening up after about three or so miles, so I decided to cut the run short and kill two birds with one stone.

I might be setting my easy pace too fast, but how am I supposed to work up to a faster 'easy' pace unless I...set my easy pace a little faster?  I don't know.  Tomorrow is 3 half mile intervals separated by a half mile recovery, then off on Friday!