Kate Middleton has an objectively amazing life—she's brilliant, beautiful, and a literal royal who gets to dedicate her days to bringing attention to worthy causes and traveling the world as a diplomat. Not. Too. Shabby.
What's the key to that success? Well, a small part of it might be found in a very important and impactful piece of advice Kate received more than 20 years ago. In her book Kate: The Future Queen, royal biographer Katie Nicholl reveals that one of Kate's favorite teachers, Dr. Robert Acheson, the former headmaster of St Andrews' Prep School, passed a memorable piece of wisdom down to the future Duchess: Always keep smiling.
Nicholl writes:
"She had the most fabulous smile, and I always told her, whatever happens in life, keep smiling," Dr. Acheson explained later.
That advice has clearly stuck with Kate to this day, and her beaming smile lights up the world at every royal engagement she attends. It probably didn't hurt when it came to attracting Will's attention, either, because honestly, who doesn't want to spend time with someone who's always exuding joy?
For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for theMarie Claire newsletter.
