Penelope Cruz: I feel I have won the biggest lottery

Penelope Cruz forgot how to relax. The Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides actress — who has a five-month-old son, Leo, with husband Javier Bardem — has now learned to not be a “workaholic” and no longer feels guilty about taking time out to switch off from her career.

“I think we all change every day but after years of being a workaholic and always being tired, I’ve changed rhythm and found a more happy equilibrium,” she said.

“I don’t feel guilty when I don’t work now. Before, when I went home to Spain from America, I’d forgotten how to holiday properly — how to lie on the beach and relax.

“I’d go and lock myself in the bathroom with my Blackberry and check for work emails. My family knew about this and always tried to hide my phone.”

Penelope, 37, also admitted she feels she has “won the lottery” with her career success and the opportunities it has given her.

“I feel I have won the biggest lottery,” she added.

“I’m doing what I love as my job and I am so grateful for the things that I have.

“I never forget that to have a house and food on your plate is not normal for so many people.”