Sounds like you would like to make some progress with things, yet this partner seems sort of negative or disagreeable or criticizing. As you have tried to understand what might be happening in his life that would be possible factors, it seems that there's imbalance. Perhaps a pause would be helpful? And perhaps your efforts to communicate with him about things will be helpful too. About the not leaving tips - maybe the two of you could discuss that too, and find out what each one of you considers to be appropriate (and discuss his feelings of embarrassment).