(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Kerry Washington always follows her own heart when it comes to making life decisions.

The actress has forged a career in Hollywood with roles in films including Ray, The Last King of Scotland and Our Song.

Kerry has revealed the life mantra which helps her tackle the sometimes fickle film industry.

"I kind of follow this Shakespeare quote, To thine own self be true.' At different stages that has been echoed through my life, from mentors, therapists and friends, they've all kind of said the same thing," she explained in an interview with Pride magazine. "Chekhov also has this great quote, If you want to work on your art, work on your life.' I would say that's an important idea as an artist, to make sure you follow that."

Kerry wants to live her life to the full. The raven-haired beauty's personal choices in life always reflect in her professional achievements.

"For me it's important to make sure that my life is rich, that my life is meaningful and that always makes my work more rich and meaningful," she revealed.

"That is something that has taken me a long time to learn personally." (C) Cover Media