If one is making progress toward a given goal, no matter how slowly, self-affirmation is due in abundance. If one has a goal but is making no progress toward it, both the aim and the reasons for lack of progress are to be called into question. If one has no goals, yet lives with discontent, the reason, however elusive, is ultimately self. If one has no goals and lives in bliss, then all steps of the ladder of life lay behind them.
Growth
I strive for your first example. A couple of days ago I read this quote by Confucius: It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop. I realized immediately he was talking about me.
Ha, me too.