be an end in itself

be an end in itself

Of a pursuit or activity, to be performed for its own sake rather than for some greater goal or purpose. My parents think that studying literature is an end in itself and will never lead to a career. The skills you learn from this hobby can be applied to a wide range of professions, so it's not just an end in itself. The joy I get from being creative is an end in itself.

See also: an, end, itself

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.