To be trusting of strangers after being burned many times can be a tricky endeavor. I have always been aware and conscious of my surroundings. When I was an engineer I traveled the world a lot alone and that entailed me to be very aware of my surroundings. Even once upon a time, while in Europe, in a drunken stupor I was able to be alert. Not once (Knock on Wood) have I been pickpocketed or stabbed...Being a woman can have its own challenges, but I found that giving people the benefit of the doubt is always best unless my intuition kicks in and throws up red flags. If red flags pop up, I use that "flight" mechanism. I never realized what that "gut feeling" of intuition actually was until a couple of years ago. It has never steered me wrong yet. I find I give people too much of the benefit of the doubt, but the truth will always come out. I feel being a good samaritan if I am guided to do so is also a good thing. If the red flags come up, I avoid it. I've had numerous people, even while I was in a country that did not speak English ask me for directions, and being cordial has benefited not only the other person but myself. It gives a good sense of accomplishment for helping others, because I know if I am in need, I would hope someone would do the same for me. Be safe, my Steemit friend!
I think giving the benefit of the doubt is definitely a good thing to do but as you say, intuition must be noted!