I think it is important to make a distinction between what we could call "local perfectionism" and "global perfectionism". Unless it turns completely wierd, local perfectionism seems to me to be necessary for all crafts, to do Michael's tough passages, etc., practicing, whatever. When it comes to global perfectionism -- to be the best X in the world -- it works for some people -- gives them a good self image, a goal to strive for, whatever. But it wrecks other people, partly because it is often way too grandiose, and also not specific enough so you can tell whether you are making any progress towards it, nor can any counter-evidence of fact make any dent in it. It is just a vague obstacle or burden, and not empowering at all.

yours, Peter T.