David Beckham has it all.
A celebrated professional football career that spanned over two decades. A Spice Girl for a wife. A billion-dollar MLS club that’s currently home to football’s reigning GOAT. A net worth of approximately $500 million. All the trimmings of the good life. And yes: his very own Netflix documentary series,
Unlike other high-rolling celebrities who’ve burned out, losing both their money and minds in the process, Becks has somehow maintained a positive outlook throughout his years in the public eye.
Despite the horrendous, depression-inducing cycles of national/international bullying he endured as a rising star on the scene.
And according to the man himself, it all comes down to a few other key areas that he believes can help the ordinary punter feel a little happier.
Here’s what David Beckham has to say about living a happy life.
Family Matters
“From my perspective, my motivation is my family. It’s always been about family, how to help them live a better longer life, to let our children do the same.”
Family first and foremost.
It’s a well-documented fact that most people regret not spending enough time with their families towards the end of their lives. Friends, acquaintances, and (especially) business partners, all come and go. But family lasts. Family is legacy. And for David Beckham, this simple fact of life remains true.
After over two decades of marriage to the “working class” Victoria Beckham née Adams (AKA Posh Spice), the couple is still going strong; enduring virtually endless media attention and even caustic accusations of adultery.
“You work together. It’s a bit of give and take, always. And marriage is hard work. We’re busy. I always tell Victoria I’m more busy, but she says she is,” David Beckham told The Telegraph.
“You have to prioritise your time with each other. That’s what we’ve always done, and it seems to be working.”
Such extremely high-profile relationships are usually destined for disaster. So their “survival” is a miracle in itself. As husband and wife, they’ve not only prioritised one other, but also become parents to four children — Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz, and Harper — who are beginning to lead successful lives in their own right.
Limit Phone Use
“At dinner with my family, my phone will be turned off.“
In 2023, 86.3% of Australians own a smartphone.
While these devices are undoubtedly useful in bridging long-distance communication gaps, as we all know, they have a tendency to cut us off from those closest to us.
David Beckham hasn’t dived especially deep into this topic, but it’s certainly one worth noting. When you’re with friends or family, put your phone away, and out of sight. Give them your full attention.
With the advent of the smartphone and social media, people seem to have more “friends” yet feel lonelier than ever before. Unplugging for just an hour a day may help gain some perspective.
Exercise
“I think all exercise helps in having a healthy lifestyle. The most important thing to remember is that you don’t have to join a gym or commit to a football team; the simple things like going to the park, walking to school, or taking the dog out can really make a difference.”
Aside from the endorphin boost and the pleasure of being out and about, humans were made to move.
You don’t need to be snatching 100 kilos at an F45 class or bending it like Beckham (relevant) to start seeing the benefits of exercise.
Get some fresh air circulating in your system, make an effort to look better, and subsequently feel better.
