You may at one time or another have heard a quiet voice inside telling you that you're not qualified to do what you're doing. Perhaps after completing an assignment, that internal voice tells you that you may have fooled folks this time, but next time you won't be so lucky.

“Impostor syndrome” is a common feeling that many people experience to varying degrees. In some cases, it involves fleeting thoughts of self-doubt; in more extreme cases, it may keep a person from applying for a new assignment or job just to play it safe. The exact prevalence of impostor syndrome is not known, but research indicates that it is quite common, particularly among highly accomplished people.

Neurology Today talked with some neurologists about their experiences with impostor syndrome in their roles as trainees, clinicians, and educators. We also talked with a researcher who has made some surprising findings about the potential upsides of the phenomenon while studying medical students, nurses, and others. Those interviewed shared some strategies to address the syndrome, including a suggestion to keep a “brag file” as a reality check.