When it comes to business and generally people, I treat people the way I’d want to be treated and I give people the benefit of the doubt.

It usually works out for the best and there are occasionally times where it doesn’t. Most people in business and life will respond to kindness with kindness. The rare person won’t and might take advantage of that kindness.

When working with plan providers and even plan sponsors, there is nothing wrong with seeing the good in people, but once you see the bad side, it’s time to close up the trust department. If a client or other plan provider takes advantage of you through unprofessional conduct or by stiffing a bill, don’t let yourself to be open to being taken advantage of again.

As they say: fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me. Never let them get that second shot to do wrong by you again.