Tao means 'the way.' Self-directed goal-setting known in the West doesn't influence this picture.  Taoists believe that the goal will evolve without you seeking to influence it.  According to Tao, you grow to learn during each moment and each step of your existence, and have no reason to worry about creating end goals. 

Instead, you can realize that goals are waiting to be discovered in each of your experiences. In this mindset, goals are not perceived as destintations.  Rather, your own evolution is the goal which can be happening constantly.  To be living and choosing to learn is to be 'at the goal.'

The Tao of you is uncharted territory.  You have no recipe or map to guide you on this journey.  It's not possible to follow in someone else's footsteps and find your way.  As you evolve to live your life with courage and explore your unknown, you must go forth alone.  Only as you become more aware of yourself can you create your own patterns and unconditional freedom.

Taoists believe that personal freedom is desirable at the same time as they realize it has no traditional safety or security. The real way, your way isn't found in crowds, which by their nature, offer safety in numbers yet, don't compel you to seek and inquire on your own.  If you borrow someone else's truth, or conform to goals established by others, you never know you.