As heir to the British throne, Prince William has spent much of his life preparing to one day become king.
Now, at the age of 40, the future sovereign seems more prepared than ever to take on the duties and responsibilities he will be entrusted with.
Although William is still years away from the start of his reign, he has already shown signs that he will be an exemplary king when the time comes.
Prince William to be King
Forging his own path
While William is aware of the weight of expectations placed on him, he has also worked to forge his own path in life.
After graduating from the University of St Andrews in Scotland, William chose not to devote himself fully to royal duties. Instead, he became the first heir to the throne to hold a civilian job, as a pilot for the East Anglian Air Ambulance.
This allowed William to devote himself to public service while gaining valuable life experience outside the palace walls.
The prince also spent time focusing on his personal life, particularly his relationship with Kate Middleton.
The future king chose to live with his future queen consort before marrying her, against tradition. William wanted to ensure that he and Kate could lead a normal life together before fully embarking on his royal duties.
The couple married in 2011 and now have three children. Protecting their family and raising the next generation of royals in a loving environment has become their top priority.
Stepping up royal duties
In recent years, William has significantly increased his workload on behalf of the Crown as he prepares to one day reign.
In 2022 he fulfilled more than 220 royal engagements, traveling extensively throughout Britain to connect with citizens.
Some of William’s most important work has centered on his environmental activism. He launched the ambitious Earthshot Prize initiative, which rewards innovators who find solutions to pressing climate problems.
William hopes these efforts will help define his legacy as a forward-thinking king.
The prince has also taken on more ceremonial military duties, in keeping with his future role as head of the British armed forces.
Among other things, he has assumed several senior positions in the forces that William will inherit upon becoming king.
Leadership in times of crisis
During national crises, William has demonstrated his ability to reassure and lead the British public.
His calm and compassionate presence was evident after the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
William immediately appeared with his brother, Prince Harry, to quietly contemplate the wreaths left by mourners outside Windsor Castle, presenting a unified front despite the troubles.
The prince also joined his father, King Charles III, on surprise walks to interact with the public.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, William regularly visited frontline healthcare workers and charities supporting mental health services.
A modern monarchy
While honoring centuries of tradition, William also appears poised to spearhead changes to modernize and streamline the monarchy.
This approach is intended to maintain public support for the institution in a rapidly changing Britain.
There are indications that William may reduce the number of senior royals and cut spending when he takes the helm.
There are indications that he and Kate plan to dispense with unnecessary protocol and be less formal.
The future king has also been willing to acknowledge the monarchy’s past shortcomings.
During a recent tour of the Caribbean, William stated bluntly that slavery was “abhorrent” and should not have existed under the empire.
Preparing his children’s future role
As a proud father, William has an immense interest in preparing Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis to one day serve the Crown themselves.
However, William seems determined to allow his children to enjoy as normal an upbringing as possible before royal duties come calling.
The prince has stressed the importance of spending time with his children out of the public eye.
Lately, he has been involving his son George in sporting events from time to time, such as a recent appearance during the Rugby World Cup in France.
Loved by the people
It is worth noting that William is the most loved member of the British royalty in that country, with an 80% approval rating.
Prince William has proven to be a charismatic leader and committed to his role in the monarchy.
His closeness to the British people and his dedication to charitable causes have contributed to his popularity.
In addition, his marriage to Princess Catherine has also been well received by the public, which has further strengthened his position in the monarchy.
With Prince William on the throne, it is possible that the British monarchy will experience an increase in public support.
His popularity and charisma could attract more people to support the royal family and keep the monarchical institution alive in the UK.