I’ve always had a serious case of perfectionism that started in high school and continues to this day.  I’m going to post a link to an article that describes why I developed this.  Its titled, “If I’m perfect, no one will reject me”.  I had a lot of rejection growing up from peers (especially girls) that led to very low self esteem.  I developed this belief that appearing perfect to others, was the only sure fire way to prevent being rejected.  I felt I could not make a mistake because I would be judged very harshly and rejected.  Its a very stressful way to live when you constantly fear that your false appearance will be exposed.  It was this inner, chronic stress that I put on myself that lead to my generalized anxiety disorder.  The article is at:    www.innerbonding.com/show-article/2734/if-im-perfect-no-one-will-reject-me-healing-perfectionism.html