Spiritual progress is energized by intention that reinforces dedication and commitment as well as alignment with spiritual principles and practices. This results in dedication and willingness to focus effort, determination, and patience that require overall good-will towards oneself and the process of spiritual endeavor. The above could be subsumed as a devotional attitude towards oneself that transcends any specific linear definition. Goals automatically prioritize value and meaning, which thereby tend to provide the necessary energy for spiritual effort.
from Transcending the Levels of Consciousness, ch. 20, pg. 337