Celestine Chua at lifehack (http://celestinechua.com/blog/) writes a good article on reason why being perfectionist is not a winning point, but, in some cases, can be a problem.

What Celestine says is that “[...] And a dedication towards perfection undoubtedly helps us to achieve great results. Yet, there is a hidden flip side to being perfectionists that we may not be aware of. Sure, being perfectionists and having a keen eye for details help us become excellent. However, as ironic as it might sound, perfectionism at its extreme prevents us from being our best[...]“.

I agree with Celestine that some of the main points are a global loose of efficiency and effectiveness and the missing of a big picture.

The main discussion with those being perfectionists relies on the pleasure and tranquillity deriving from making something perfect.

But in my opinion perfection is like “limits” in math: you can approach them, but cannot reach them.

Here are my comments on Celestine points:

• Draw a line: true, but, unless you’re not working under constraints of time nor money, prefer achieving the objective rather than making the best thing ever.
• Be conscious of trade-offs: agree on this, because each one of us is working with finite resources.
• Get a view of the big picture: this is one of the main points for me. Most of the times, I deal with people doing their own bit perfectly, but in a asynchronous way if compared to a bigger picture. I work as a programme manager (i.e. I manage different projects on a client, with Project Managers referring to me for delivery) and I take a part of my time to allign my PMs on cross project implications. And most of the times I get a wonderful “ooooooooh” when I explain them that on a higher point of view we could achieve a comparable result making a very good work, but without aiming at pure perfection
• Focus on big rocks: It’s one of PM basis. First use the hammer, then when the shape is given you can focus on details
• Set a time limit: this deals with constrains and is very important, because (unless you work with unrealistic expectations), there’s always a trade off between time and quality.
• Be okay with making mistakes: to err is human and is part of each one path of growth. And if mistakes can be avoided it’s ok, but if some part is made and solved, sharing this with the team is a grow moment.
• Realize our concerns: I agree on this. Planning is everything, but flexibility in delivery is the key.
• Take breaks: Helps to breathe for a while and understand where we’re heading

This post as a comment also at http://www.lifehack.org/articles/productivity/why-being-a-perfectionist-may-not-be-so-perfect.html/comment-page-1#comment-351585