What can be a motivation for neurotic perfectionists to perform?

Neurotic perfectionists are often driven by a need for external validation. This need typically stems from their high self-expectations and an intense fear of failure. They feel that their self-worth is tied to their achievements and how they are perceived by others. As a result, the motivation to perform comes from a desire to receive approval, recognition, and praise from peers, authority figures, or society at large.

This pursuit of external validation leads them to set and pursue exceedingly high standards in their performance, resulting in a pattern of behavior that focuses on meeting the expectations they believe others have for them. This can manifest in overachievement and avoiding mistakes at all costs, hence their compulsive striving for perfection in various aspects of life.