The Five Engines: How to build a life worth waking up of Meaning by Marek Berg

A clear and practical framework for building a life worth waking up for. The Five Engines of Meaning turns “purpose” from a vague idea into daily, repeatable practice. Marek Berg moves from what meaning is and is not to five reliable engines that power a fulfilling life: Growth, Belonging, Service, Craft, and Wonder. Each engine has a matching “in practice” chapter with simple moves you can use this week. You’ll learn how to develop steadily, root into real community, contribute where it matters, make excellent work, and keep awe alive then balance the engines so none run hot while another runs dry.

Written in calm, direct prose, the book pairs insight with small actions that compound. Reflection prompts, micro-rituals, and weekly check-ins make progress visible at home and at work. By the end, meaning isn’t something you chase; it’s something your days produce.

What you will learn
• How to define meaning (vs. mood or achievement) and design “a life worth waking up for.”
• How the five engines Growth, Belonging, Service, Craft, Wonder, work, and how to diagnose which is underpowered.
• How to translate each engine into habits and projects: learning loops, connection rituals, contribution sprints, craft disciplines, and everyday awe.
• How to balance the engines across seasons so fulfillment is sustainable, not accidental.

Who this book is for
• Seekers who want purpose with structure, not slogans.
• Professionals, founders, and teams aiming to build meaningful work cultures.
• People in transition—new roles, new cities, new seasons—who need a steady compass.
• Book clubs and cohorts that value practical reflection and shared accountability.