Perfectionism, on the other hand, is strongly associated with depression, anxiety, fear, and frustration. Psychologists who have studied the link between perfectionism and emotional distress have identified some mental distortions that perfectionists use to interpret their experiences. Perfectionists see themselves either as successes or failures with no in between. Perfectionists feel that they must never make a mistake and should always perform perfectly in order to be a worthwhile person. The Gospel of Jesus Christ teaches us that a loving Father in heaven values us for our inherent worth and provided the atonement as an opportunity to return to Him.
Perfectionists experience excessive shame in making mistakes.
They are overly sensitive as to what others think. Success is measured by validation from others and meeting external performance standards. Striving for wholeness, however, recognizes the individual's unique challenges as well as gifts. Appropriate goals are derived from inner awareness. The person can find joy even in small, personal triumphs.