I’ve just finished watching the new three-part Netflix documentary on Victoria Beckham and I’ve got to say, I really like her. I’ve never disliked her to be honest.
Looking back over the years, it’s painful to see how harshly the media treated her. Every aspect of her appearance and personality was picked apart- her weight, her smile, even the way she stood next to her husband. She was constantly criticised and for what? For being a pop star and then being a WAG? No .. for being a woman and daring to be ambitious in a world that loves to tear women down for exactly that trait.
Then came her move into fashion which many saw as a bold but foolish step. She went on to build a respected brand from the ground up, and yet even then, she was ridiculed. For making mistakes. But let’s face it those of us who attempt to build a business make shed loads of mistakes, don’t we? I know I have. Thank god I’m not in the public eye like she is. When David invested in her business, the narrative shifted again: suddenly, she was framed as dependent, undeserving and lucky to have him. It was as if no version of her was ever allowed to win.
At the end of the documentary, David asks her a simple but profound question: “What are you trying to prove, and to whom?” She answers, “To you, after everything you’ve supported me with.” And he gently corrects her: “I don’t think so. I think it’s proving to yourself that you are enough.”
That line totally resonated with me.
How often do we chase validation from others, when really, the work is about affirming our own worth?
I’ve read some reviews calling the documentary ‘boring,’ but I actually think that’s exactly the point. Victoria isn’t flamboyant or flashy in her personal life. She came across to me as deliberate, focused and quietly resilient. The story isn’t about drama; it’s about dedication, self-belief, and the courage to keep going despite heaps of negative criticism.
And that, to me, is really more inspiring.
Watching her now calm, self-assured, and unapologetically herself reminded me of the quiet courage it takes to keep going despite doubt, pressure and all the external opinions.
Victoria’s story is a powerful reminder that true resilience isn’t about winning other people over, it’s about showing up for yourself, trusting your abilities and knowing that you are enough, just as you are.
I also have a personal anecdote about VB that makes me smile every time I think about it.
When I had my online gift business back in 2007 I sent some gifts to her press office. Her mum left me a voicemail saying how much she and David loved what I’d sent. I couldn’t believe I wasn’t home at the time … it was on that old thing called a landline!
I saved the message for a long time.
It was such a thoughtful, personal touch, and to me it really reflected the kind of person Victoria really is behind the headlines.
I’m giving it 3.5 stars out of 5 – worth a watch.