The way I look at it is to use things like scales and other forms of practice as ways of opening up your mind to new methods of getting around the fretboard.
Kinda hard to explain, but when I first learned the 3 note per string scales, I learned them not just forward but also starting with an upstroke and doing the scale in the opposite way, or starting in the middle and working my way up the neck on just the middle 3 or 4 strings.
After many months of this it still felt like I hadn't progressed any, until I started writing and playing new songs. Then suddenly this new information was just there.

Don't know what to suggest moving on to next but try the 3 note per string scales if you don't know them yet.

http://guitartricks.com/tutorial.php?input=28

... and like I said, learn them backwards, forwards and sideways until they just come to you subconsciously. A couple of months from now, you'll start using them and it'll just come naturally. (always feel free to practice other stuff at the same time too... especially things like cleaning up your playing and learning how to properly do muting and all the other techniques like bends and slides etc. )

One thing I always advise students to do as well, is come up with a 5 minute piece that illustrates your best playing. Something original that showcases all your best talents. Play it several times a day until you can practically do it in your sleep. Then the next time somebody wants to hear you play something, just whip out your showcase piece.
As you progress over the years, keep adding new stuff to your showcase and keep improving on it. Just keep playing it until you don't even need to think about it anymore.