The idea that increasing pressure stimulates people to perform better and better, until an optimum point is reached, dates back to 1908. Psychologists Robert Yerkes and John Dodson found that, when pressure exceeds this optimum point, it has the opposite effect and people's performance starts to suffer. This conclusion still holds today.

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Perfection versus high achievement: A high achiever can strive for excellence and be content with the amount of progress they make because it proved them the opportunity to learn and grow. A Perfectionist’s focus on achievement is much less forgiving and it can rob them of any satisfaction and pride in their work. High achievers know that it’s okay to fail and they see it as a way to learn.

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“Have no fear of perfection, you’ll never reach it.” – Salvador Dali