What are the most important lessons you've learned along your career and life journey? originally appeared on Quora - the knowledge sharing network where compelling questions are answered by people with unique insights.

Answer by Vanessa De Luca, editor-in-chief of Essence, on Quora:

I have about 10 life lessons that I've embraced on my career and life journey, and they are:

  1. Know what you stand for--and what you don't. It gives you clarity. I stand for persistence, hard work, and never taking shortcuts.
  2. Don't rest on your laurels. Instead, always strive for something outside of your comfort zone.
  3. Believe in the power of failure. It's the best way to learn. Just remember to learn from your mistakes, and not to repeat the same ones.
  4. Trust your inner compass, even when the naysayers do not.
  5. Take the risk that takes you somewhere new. I changed my career at age 30 and started over. It took me to where I am today.
  6. Look back--but only to see how far you've come. You won't see your next step if you're constantly retracing your last one.
  7. Don't be afraid to do the unexpected. That nervousness you feel means you're growing.
  8. Remain humble--but let 'em know. It's great to give credit more than you take credit, but when it's your turn to own it, do that.
  9. Never stop learning, because it gives you courage. The more knowledgeable you are, the more comfortable you feel.
  10. A winner never quits--a quitter never wins.

This question originally appeared on Quora - the knowledge sharing network where compelling questions are answered by people with unique insights. You can follow Quora on Twitter, Facebook, and Google+. More questions:?