Madonna uses her fame for "the greater good".

The 53-year-old star knows she is a role model for many women and so tries to set a positive example.

She said: "I am aware that everything I say and do is judged. I use that to the greater good, I know I can influence people."

However, the 'W.E.' director admits she thinks people are sometimes "intimidated" by her power and success.

She told the new issue of Britain's Grazia magazine: "I think people often misunderstand my power and get intimidated by that rather than trying to understand me."

Madonna became a household name in 1984 and though she admits she is "kind of weary" of being in the public eye, she is still fascinated by fame and understands both its good and bad points.

She said: "I'm interested in fame as I am kind of weary of it. I think it has its pluses and minuses.

"I think everyone is intrigued and wants to have a part of that kind of world but if you are smart you realise the trap that it is as well."