While Princess Anne remains dedicated to her royal duties, recent interviews have shed light on her secret aspiration to pursue a career far removed from her obligations as a senior working member of the British Royal Family. In a 1983 interview with her ex-husband Mark Phillips, Anne was reminded of her reaction to being asked what profession she would choose if she were an ordinary person for a day. Surprisingly, her answer was that she yearned to be a truck
However, Anne was quick to clarify that she did not simply want to be a driver. With her heavy goods vehicle (HGV) license already in hand, she envisioned a life where she could earn a living on the open road while also enjoying the solitude and flexibility that came with the job. As Anne explained, by dedicating oneself to long hours of driving, one could then savor the luxury of leisure time during breaks. To her, it “wouldn’t be such a terrible way to live.”
Beyond the freedom and independence of life as a truck driver, Anne also appreciated the work ethic and self-sufficiency it would require. As a senior royal, she is acutely aware of the stringent expectations and unwavering composure needed to fulfill her duties. In a 1981 documentary, Anne discussed how royals must always appear pleasant and radiant in public, even if their inner emotions do not align. There is an unwritten code of conduct that governs their every move.
As a hardworking royal who participated in an astounding 457 official public outings in 2023 alone, Anne understands the challenges of maintaining absolute professionalism. With over five decades of royal service, she recognizes the importance of choosing suitable companions for engagements.
Typically accompanied by her husband Sir Timothy Lawrence, Anne emphasizes the need for supportive partners who understand the role. She expressed frustration with individuals who arrive looking disheveled, angry, unenthusiastic or bored, describing how that fails to benefit anyone and disappoints those they are visiting.
Beyond the dream of freedom on the open road, Anne’s interest in obtaining her HGV license also hints at her independent spirit and practical work ethic. She has rarely given candid interviews discussing her personal desires, yet these comments shed light on Anne’s private aspirations outside the constraints of the royal bubble. With a personality perfectly suited to the solitary lifestyle of a long-haul trucker, it’s intriguing to imagine the Princess finding contentment hitting the road without pomp or obligation.
While she remains devoted to serving as a senior working royal, Anne’s comments show that life away from the spotlight holds its own appeal. Her dream reflects an ordinary pursuit that millions share, one where self-sufficiency meets leisurely rewards. Despite a lifetime immersed in the rigors of the monarchy, Princess Anne’s answered revealed an unexpected yet relatable desire for autonomous living on her own terms. It presents a glimpse into the private hopes that counterbalance her commitment to public service and duty as a senior member of the Royal Family.