Recovery is not easy.  When you feel like you cannot go any further, focus on the accomplishments you have made.  I remember being motivated by the fact that I could sleep through the night, I had increased energy, and I felt mental clarity.  Yes, eating disorders mess up your thinking!  Write down the times you have a positive experience in recovery.  If you have a day where your thoughts are not as strong, write it down.  Keep track of milestones like being able to socialize without anxiety or being able to read a book.  It is easy to lose sight of the positive things when you are focused on the meal plan or weight. You may have difficulty in seeing a future without your eating disorder; however, recognizing each accomplishment can allow you to see the progress you have made.

• If you have experienced any positive symptom improvement, list it:
• Examples might include: Being less cold, Sleeping Better, More Energy, Less anxious or depressed, Better Concentration, Thinking about calories less, Able to follow meal plan better, Less isolation?
• How has this impacted your daily living?
• If you have not had any of the improved symptoms, what would you like to experience? What is one way you think you can get there?
• If you are struggling with your meal plan or symptoms, what can you use to remind yourself that you will feel better with continued perseverance? 

Read this example:

AB was a young high school student with anorexia nervosa.  She had trouble trusting that things could get better.  At her first visit she told me that her year was supposed to be the “best-ever” but was instead going horribly.  She was frustrated because she was having to try harder, work harder, and could not focus nor concentrate.  I explained that as she became more nourished, she would see that these things would not be as difficult.  Not believing me, but agreeing to try as a good student, she came in several weeks later reporting more energy, social activities with friends, and having more time.