Oscar-nominated film and TV actor John Hawkes had some advice to share for filmmakers on surviving in the film industry.

In an article published by Movie Maker Magazine, Hawkes said he has no formal education in moviemaking, but that he's picked up helpful hints through his profession by observing others on set and learning via filmmaking books. Considering the varying nature of the projects he takes on, from HBO's comedic "Eastbound and Down" to the more serious tone of Spielberg's film "Lincoln," Hawkes wisdom is well-earned.

Current acting projects for Hawkes include a starring role in "Too Late," the feature film debut of writer-director Dennis Hauck. The film is being produced by Vanishing Angle.

Here are the seven things Hawkes says he's learned throughout his career, as quoted from an interview with Movie Maker Magazine.

1. Trust your gut. Don’t guess what the audience wants. Tell the story you want to tell, the way you want to tell it.

2. All arts connect and inform each other. See theater, dance, music, and visual art; read great books. Be thrilled and inspired beyond your niche.

3. Loaf occasionally.

4. Make a vital life outside of the business. Travel, struggle, get a hobby, study, volunteer—gain perspective. This may indirectly benefit your work, as well. Hitchhiking thousand of miles, though I no longer recommend it, greatly enriched my understanding of people and story.

5. This business will knock you down. When it does, try to get up, dust yourself off, and take another step forward. And try to rejoice in the idea that you’ve found work that you love to do. Most don’t.

6. Be kind. Be brave. Be prepared. Work hard. Have a great sense of humor.

7. William Goldman famously said of the film industry that: “Nobody knows anything.” This may be true. I don’t know for sure.

For more great filmmaking tips, check out Kevin Casey's ScreenCraft post, "BAFTA’s Six Super Screenwriting Tips."