Great points all around. I'm currently reading "Life on Purpose," which describes how Abraham Maslow, late in his career, after all his influence on self actualization, decided that self-transcendence was actually more important. The author suggests that self-transcendence is more about being "outside" oneself with purpose. I think your focus on work and gratitude along with purpose captures that idea brilliantly.
One additional thought, aligning purpose with your most important values gives it more direction and meaning as well. Check out the World Values Survey (http://www.worldvaluessurvey.org/wvs.jsp) also referenced in "Life on Purpose."
Can't wait to read more of your motivational content.