Kate is 'done' with hectic schedule as princess prioritises George, Charlotte and Louis

Dorothy Reddin

By Dorothy Reddin


Published: 12/01/2026

- 09:57

'Running on empty isn't an option,' a commentator has claimed

Princess Kate is "done" with the hectic schedules of her past, as the mother-of-three wants to prioritise spending time with Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, according to a royal commentator.

Her gradual return to royal duties last year represented a significant increase from the previous 12 months, with 68 engagements completed compared to just 13 in 2024.


Royal commentator Robert Jobson explained: "After everything she has been through, she feels blessed that her treatment is over, and quality time with the children is what matters most."

The princess adopted a measured approach in 2025, carefully selecting her appearances whilst prioritising her recovery.

Princess Kate

Kate is 'done' with hectic schedule as princess prioritises George, Charlotte and Louis

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GETTY

According to Mr Jobson, the past year was characterised by "survival then recovery mode, picking her moments and pacing herself."

Looking ahead, Kate's schedule is already taking shape for 2026, with sources indicating her diary is steadily filling with commitments. However, she remains determined to be discerning about which engagements she accepts.

"This year, I expect Catherine to carry out more engagements but be selective," Mr Jobson observed. "It will be meaningful, with gaps in between for her family."

The princess has made clear that her previous relentless schedule is firmly in the past.

Kate Middleton cancer video

Kate released a video to give fans an update on her health in September 2024

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KENSINGTON PALACE

"Running on empty isn't an option; nor is missing too much time with George, Charlotte and Louis. The days of just powering through are done," Mr Jobson continued to tell Hello!.

Princess Kate is understood to be "excited" about her future projects, specifically regarding her work with nature.

The Princess of Wales marked her 44th birthday on January 9. To commemorate the occasion, Kate unveiled a video message exploring the restorative qualities of the natural world.

She said: "I find myself reflecting on how deeply grateful I am. For the rivers within us flow with ease, fears washed away, cleanse and purify. Come to peace with our tears and discover what it means to be alive."

Kate Middleton

Kate announced in an emotional video in March 2024 that she had been diagnosed with cancer

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PA

Palace sources indicate the princess intends to build upon this theme throughout 2026. A royal aide told the outlet: "The Princess is excited about exploring what more we can do to harness the power of nature and creativity for human connection, healing and wellbeing for individuals, families, communities and society."

This focus on nature's therapeutic benefits appears central to her vision for future charitable endeavours.

Mr Jobson noted that birthdays carry greater significance now as the princess's children mature rapidly, though "this doesn't mean that Catherine feels the need to celebrate with grand gestures."

He claimed that whilst Prince William once treated her to romantic dinners during their courtship, the couple now favour quiet family suppers at home.

Princess Kate

Kate confirmed on January 7, 2025, that she was in remission

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TOBY SHEPHEARD / KENSINGTON PALACE

Following 12 months since announcing she was in remission, Kate has found herself in a position of profound gratitude as she looks ahead with fresh enthusiasm.

Her November appearance at the Future Workforce Summit marked a notable milestone, delivering her first speech in two years to business leaders about the importance of nurturing home environments alongside workplace productivity.

Giovanna Fletcher, who attended as a champion of Kate's Shaping Us early years campaign, witnessed the address firsthand.

"Watching Catherine deliver her first speech since returning to duties, to various chief executives of major companies, felt really special," she told the publication. "She is back with a bang."