I agree with most of what you have said. But, to some extent the approach to goal setting is inconclusive.

On one side, goal setting had worked and works for some folks from the very beginning of their lives. Besides, moving forward in life requires a direction which can only determined by a goal. Without a direction the person will stand still and not even be prepared for the next opportunity.

On the other side, there is something about the goals we set and what can make us persist without quitting. I believe that the more the goals are close to who uniquely someone is, what are his core values and what inspires him most, the more quitting won't be an option and the achievement closer because of the meaning that goal holds to him.