You shouldn't be defensive when you are doing something wrong.
John is washing dishes when his wife Kathy points out that the ones in the rack that are drying actually still have food on them.
John wants to respond to Kathy's statement.
John apologizes for the mistake telling Kathy he accidentally overlooked it and offers to rewash them.
John tells Kathy that he's doing a good enough job and if she wants it done to her higher standards that she can do them herself.
Kathy is happy John can take credit for his mistakes and work to correct them right away, and she gains respect for him.
Kathy is shocked John is being so childish about an obvious mistake and begins to think he's going to be difficult to live with.