A Life Beyond the Palace Walls
More than five years after stepping down from his royal role, Prince Harry is still adjusting to life outside the British monarchy.
While his decision seemed firm, the road to independence has proven more complex than expected, according to several royal commentators.
New Beginnings in California
Now residing in California with Meghan Markle and their two children—Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet—Harry has embraced a new rhythm focused on family.
Despite this fresh start, finding a distinct and stable role for himself outside the royal framework remains a work in progress.
Struggles with Financial Independence
Royal historian Marlene Koenig shared with Us Weekly that while Harry seems determined to build his life in the U.S., financial success has been elusive.
“He wants this life to work,” she said, “but it hasn’t been easy, particularly in terms of generating income. Meghan appears to carry much of that burden.”
Professional Projects with Mixed Results
Since 2020, Harry has engaged in various ventures—from his explosive memoir Spare to the widely viewed Netflix docuseries Harry & Meghan.
He also took on a leadership role at mental wellness company BetterUp. Still, his professional identity as an individual, outside of Meghan or the royal family, is taking shape.
Meghan’s Clearer Career Path
Unlike Harry’s somewhat scattered professional efforts, Meghan has taken concrete steps to build her brand through initiatives such as As Ever and Confessions of a Female Founder.
This contrast highlights Harry’s ongoing journey to establish a meaningful career of his own.
A Comfortable Home, but Unsettled Purpose
Koenig noted that while Harry may be personally content at home with his wife and children, he has yet to find external success that offers the same sense of fulfillment.
The comfort of family life hasn’t completely filled the void left by his former royal duties.
Lingering Loss and Regret
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams added that it’s hard to escape all feelings of regret after leaving such a unique life behind.
Harry’s sorrow over losing his honorary military titles and his ongoing estrangement from his family—particularly Prince William—are heavy emotional burdens.
A Desire to Reconnect
Harry himself has shown signs of yearning for reconciliation. In a BBC interview earlier this year, he said, “There’s no point in keeping the conflict going. Life is too short. I don’t know how much longer my father has.”
His words reflect a softer tone and a wish to mend broken ties.
Two Brothers, Two Very Different Paths
As Prince William continues to prepare for his future role as king, Harry’s path remains undefined.
“One brother is on a clear trajectory,” Koenig observed. “The other is still seeking balance and purpose outside the institution he was born into.”
Still Writing His Next Chapter
Despite the obstacles, Harry and Meghan maintain a united public image. Yet behind the scenes, Harry’s journey toward peace, identity, and long-term purpose is still unfolding.
His story, far from complete, is one of transformation, resilience, and rediscovery.
