I was a perfectionist to the extreme at one point. On the one hand, it kept me employed during my drinking days because that kind of "dedication" to work and detail was valuable to my employer. On the other hand, however, I could see how much time I put into things that were very temporary. I'm skilled in cognitive-behavioral therapy so I was able to dismiss many of my unnecessary actions one by one. At this point, it now longer occupies more time than I am willing to spend on it.
I also like your thought on leaving the comfort zone. It gets easier every time! I watched a TED video recently where they guy talked about getting what he wanted just by asking. Some of his examples are rather far out, but he found that if he acknowledged this to the person he was asking, he could usually get a positive response. Anyway, good post. I'll shut up now...