Zac Efron learns from the mistakes of his peers.

The 22-year-old actor - who is in a relationship with his 'High School Musical' co-star Vanessa Hudgens - wants to be known for his work rather than his personal life, so likes to observe how other young stars are perceived and change his behaviour accordingly.

He said: "Every time something does happen - and I notice when those things happen - people go through those things and experience that kind of stuff.

"I take note of it, a mental note, 'Wow, that didn't work', so, from that point on I sort of look out for that. I kind of adapt."

The 'Charlie St. Cloud' actor admits his cinematic idol is Leonardo Dicaprio and he dreams of emulating the success of the former child star.

He explained: "He's super talented and grounded and focused and that's everything I want to be in the future.

"He's experienced the good times, the bad times, the scary times and the amazing times and [he's] still escalating. It gives me some hope. it inspires me to keep going."