Cher Lloyd has claimed that she sees herself as more of a businesswoman than a celebrity.

In an interview with Heat magazine, the 2010 X-Factor finalist said that she refuses to be drawn into the world of showbiz:

"I'm not a celebrity. I never ever will be. I'm not someone to get out of a cab with my drawers on show. I'm here to make music. I am a businesswoman. I'm in this to make a good life for myself."

The 18-year-old, who last week apologised for an apparent jibe at former mentor Cheryl Cole, also admitted that her behaviour during her time on the ITV talent show had been less than exemplary:

"I was very stubborn back then. I put up a guard and I didn't want anyone to come near me. I was overwhelmed by the amount of people who showed interest in me. So I was a bitch, a real bitch. Knowing what I know now, I would've dealt with situations a lot more calmer.”

But the ‘Swagger Jagger’ star believes that doesn’t excuse the constant abuse she’s had to deal with since leaving the show:

“We're known as public property, [but] just because we're singers and this is what we've dreamed of doing forever, it doesn't mean you can knock us to the ground and treat us like shit. We're real people. We're no different to you or other people, except we're doing what we love. And, believe me, it's hard work."