"I think one of my main goals in trying to preserve my sense of reality has been to surround myself with friends who have their own careers, and who don't need me for any sense of validation or social climbing, or a career statement," she said.
The 25-year-old singer also revealed she asks her friends for advice on her music and really "respects" their opinions.
"My friends have all solidified themselves in their own careers and so if they think that I shouldn't put out a certain single as a first single, they're going to tell me. 'That wasn't one of my favourites that you've played me Taylor,' and I'm going to respect that opinion.