Matt Damon has identified nightly family dinners as a "non-negotiable" element in his household as he and his wife, Luciana, prepare for their four daughters to become empty nesters. The couple aims to maintain this tradition to foster quality time, even as they acknowledge challenges in keeping everyone engaged.
Damon shared with People that while the rule has always been in place, "there are times of 'work going on during dinner,'" which the family is actively working to improve. He recalled a moment when one of his daughters pointed out that a recent family dinner lacked conversation, prompting reflection within the family. "We can get lost in that routine a little bit and not appreciate why you established the routine in the first place," Damon explained, highlighting the family's collective effort towards "family mindfulness."
The "Bourne Identity" star and his wife are embracing the impending transition of their daughters—Alexia, Isabella, Gia, and Stella—leaving home. They are focusing on "presence and about really trying to be in the moment" to make the most of their remaining time together.
Another significant challenge the family is addressing is reducing phone usage during shared time. Damon admitted that the "ruthless" nature of his Hollywood career has sometimes taken him away from his children more than he would prefer. He expressed a desire to be more present, particularly as his children grow older.
"You're always trying to figure out what's ahead, because it's such an uncertain business and a pretty ruthless one," Damon previously told GQ. "Those kinds of things have conspired to, I think, maybe take me out of where I am, more than I'd like."
He noted the value of having all four daughters attend the London premiere of his film "The Odyssey," acknowledging the significant sacrifices his family made during its grueling production. Damon and Luciana met in 2003 and married in 2005. Damon adopted Alexia, Luciana's daughter from a previous relationship, and they later welcomed Isabella, Gia, and Stella.