[throwaway26960]

What if you enjoy the daily actions? Or initially dislike them but get in the habit of liking them? Why does there need to be progress towards some goal? I've identified drawing as a healthy hobby, who cares if I get better, although I'm sure I will because the human brain adapts quickly, gets bored and needs a challenge. "Do this and you'll get that" - doesn't that hinder what you're doing because you're focusing on the "that" rather than the "this"?

[pcmaffey]

Well I'm sure you started drawing with some goal in mind, even if it was "a more enjoyable way to spend my time." Personally, I like the term "purpose" more than "goal". The underlying WHY gives context and meaning to our daily actions. You draw for a reason. Knowing that (putting your attention on it), makes your habit even more rewarding.

[quanticle]

Or initially dislike them but get in the habit of liking them?

That's exactly the point of having a goal. It gives you a nice end state that you can look towards so you can get past the day-to-day unpleasantness of actually forcing yourself to practice.

Different people have different motivation systems. I, personally, find it very difficult to do something without a goal in mind. If I try, I end up giving up very quickly, as my subconscious keeps asking, "What's the point of all this?" If I don't have an answer for that question, it's very difficult to keep going.