Catherine, Princess of Wales, has established two clear priorities she refuses to compromise on despite her future role as Queen: her family and her health. These “non-negotiables” have shaped her approach to royal duties and personal life, particularly during her recent health challenges.
“I think there’s an interesting parallel between the way Charles once put his future on the line by declaring that his relationship with Camilla was “non-negotiable,” and the way Catherine has made it clear that, for the immediate future at least, her undisputed priorities are “her family and her health,” says former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond.
The Princess first established these fundamental life rules with Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III in 2015, insisting on having her full maternity leave and emphasizing that her family would always be her priority. She has maintained these principles throughout her time in the royal spotlight, consistently demonstrating her commitment to her royal duties and her children – Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
Following her cancer diagnosis and treatment, Kate is implementing these priorities in practical ways. She plans to “spoil” her children with focused family time, including a skiing holiday during Easter break and an extended summer vacation, helping them cope with the challenges they’ve faced during her illness.
The Princess and Prince William are implementing a “more but measured” approach to their royal duties in 2025, limiting their travel to maintain family stability. Kate has no plans for full-scale foreign royal tours, while William will undertake only a few shorter trips abroad. This strategy allows them to balance their roles as working royals with being present parents.
Kate’s gradual return to public duties demonstrates her commitment to meaningful engagement. Her renewed involvement in royal activities shows she’s focused on ensuring her contributions have a real impact. The couple has strengthened their media team to control their narrative and protect their children from unwanted attention, demonstrating Kate’s commitment to maintaining stability for her family.
As part of her measured return, Kate focuses on her signature causes, particularly her early years work and mental health initiatives. She has resumed activities like doing the school run, attending sports events, and maintaining her health through gym visits, but is not rushing back to a full schedule of royal engagements.
The princess demonstrated her family-first approach during her treatment, guiding her children through the confusion of family illness while keeping life as normal as possible. From their Windsor estate home, she maintained regular routines and school schedules, showing how she implements her priorities even during challenging times.
Kate’s commitment to these priorities has earned her admiration within the royal family, with both King Charles and Prince William believing she possesses the necessary qualities to become Queen. She has taken her place among strong women in the monarchy, like the late Queen and Princess Anne, while maintaining control of her agenda.
Looking ahead to 2025, royal sources indicate Kate will maintain her focus on family time. This includes continuing traditions like making her children’s birthday cakes and participating in their school activities, demonstrating how she balances her royal role with maintaining normalcy for her family.
