Why is it so difficult to stay by the rules?

It is because we don't learn from negativity, we do not want to admit when we are wrong and lastly we do not want to adapt in certain situations. We all face challenges; someone may say negative words in front of you or about you or being rejected for something that you work hard for.
The thing we need to practice is to avoid acting according to the emotions by taking a deep breath and answer in a positive way. Emotions can make circumstances worse.
We need to control our responses, and look at a negative situation as an opportunity to grow up. If you made a mistake admit it.

We are all humans we all make mistakes and it is normal, then we need to swallow our pride and admit to our mistakes and learn from them. Do not allow anyone by heart to bring you down by saying negative things in your opinion, when you work under pressure it is hard to absorb pressure but never quit. This is a cure to overcome a negative situation.