The client is invited to act as if the desired change had already happened, in a playful experimental way. Pretending reduces perfectionistic pressure: if it is only pretend, there is no responsibility to make it real and failure becomes impossible. It is a behavioral experiment without pressure. It is often used after the Miracle Question, because the client already has a description of desired behavior and can try it safely.
Step-by-step guide
- After describing the desired future, ask: "What if you tried for one day to behave as if this had already happened?"
- Clarify that the task is not to become another person, but to act in the way the client described.
- Ask the client to choose a specific day or moment.
- At the next session, ask what happened, what the client noticed, and what other people noticed.
When to use
- After the Miracle Question or preferred future description.
- With clients who cannot start for real because of perfectionism.
- When the client knows how they would like to act but is blocked by anxiety.
- With low confidence, because pretend lowers the threshold.
Key phrases
What if you chose one day this week and pretended that the miracle had already happened, just to see what happens? Not because it is true, but as an experiment.
Follow-up questions
People close to you may not know you are pretending. It will be interesting to see what they notice.
It does not need to be perfect. You are just trying it, like an actor in rehearsal.
Choose the day yourself. When would be easiest to try?
Alternative phrasings
For one day this week, pretend the anxiety is no longer in charge. Simply behave as if.
Try one conversation as if the problem were already behind you. What changes?
Warnings
- ⚠️ The client should choose the day; an imposed day reduces engagement.
- ⚠️ If the miracle includes other people's behavior, refocus on what depends on the client.
- ⚠️ Do not ask whether it worked; ask what they noticed.
Source: de Shazer, 1985, 1988; Berg & de Shazer
Materials are informational and educational and summarize publicly available scientific sources. They are not medical or psychological advice, are not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, and do not replace consultation with a qualified professional.