For many, the golden years are a time to step away from the demands of a career, but for 101-year-old Ann Angeletti, leaving work is not an option. This remarkable New Jersey woman is the vibrant force behind Curiosity Jewelers, a business she has run since 1964, and she maintains a busy schedule of six days a week. Her secret to a long and purposeful life isn’t a mysterious supplement; it’s a powerful commitment to daily routines that keep her mind sharp and her spirit engaged. She has shared the core habits that fuel her incredible vitality.
Ann’s workweek is a testament to her enduring passion. From Tuesday to Saturday, she can be found at her store in Cresskill, New Jersey, welcoming customers and managing her business. But her dedication doesn’t end there. On the sixth day, she makes a 30-minute trip to the diamond district in New York City, a journey that would tire many people half her age. For Ann, this isn’t a burden; it’s a source of life. She firmly believes that if she were to retire, she would simply fade away, stating that she cannot imagine the alternative of staying at home.
Her strong work ethic was forged early in life. As a child, she left school to help her family run their grocery store in Brooklyn. Later, when her husband went off to fight in World War II, she contributed to the war effort by working at a Navy Yard before becoming a waitress. Her life took a decisive turn in 1964 when she discovered the location for her future jewelry store. Upon learning the rent was just $85 a month, she seized the opportunity and never looked back, building a legacy that has now spanned over six decades.
Now, more than sixty years later, Ann continues to run her store with the same passion, often with the help of her daughter and granddaughter. Her dedication to providing excellent service to her customers remains undimmed. When asked about her secret to staying so active and alert at 101, she points to a simple yet powerful philosophy centered on self-care and discipline. She believes that the foundation of a good day is non-negotiable.
Ann’s daily blueprint for success is elegantly straightforward. She insists that you must get up, you must shower, you must eat, and you must take care of yourself. Physical exercise is also a crucial component of her routine. Beyond the physical, she offers a piece of wisdom for the soul: if you don’t like what you’re doing, then you must have the courage to change it. This combination of daily discipline and personal fulfillment is the recipe that keeps this inspiring centenarian thriving in her seventh decade of business.
