Apologies are not easy...the biggest reason is because by saying "I apologize," means you are admitting to making a mistake. This is a hit to one's self esteem. BUT accountability to crucial to a trusting relationship. If you want to hear more accountability from your partner, be sure to only show appreciation for an apology. Just say, "Thank you" or "I appreciate that." Don't verbally shove the apology back down your partner's throat with an "I told you...." or you are teaching your partner that an apology is too costly a behavior.