What is the ruling on seeking forgiveness in order to obtain what one desires thereby?

It is permissible for a Muslim to seek forgiveness (Istighfar) and perform other acts of obedience to achieve their lawful desires. This is indicated by the Hadith of Salatul Hajah (the Prayer of Need), and the Prophet's (peace be upon him) saying: "Whoever continuously seeks forgiveness, Allah will make for him a way out of every worry and a relief from every hardship, and will provide for him from where he does not expect." And whoever is constant in seeking forgiveness and strives in it, Allah will bestow upon him of His bounty what he never imagined.