In a world of fast-paced startups and rapid exits, the story of 101-year-old Ann Angeletti offers a profound lesson in enduring entrepreneurship. She is the owner and operator of Curiosity Jewelers in New Jersey, a business she opened in 1964, and she still works at her store six days a week. Her incredible career, which has now spanned over six decades, is fueled by a simple set of daily principles that have kept her sharp, engaged, and utterly devoted to her work. She is a true icon of sustained business passion.
Ann’s current schedule would be demanding for anyone. She runs her store from Tuesday to Saturday and dedicates a sixth day to traveling to New York City’s diamond district to manage her inventory. For her, this isn’t a grind; it’s the very essence of her existence. She boldly claims that retirement would lead to her demise, illustrating a powerful truth for business owners: when your work is your passion, it becomes a source of life rather than a drain on it. This mindset is the cornerstone of her longevity.
Her journey into business began with a bold leap. After working in her family’s grocery store as a child and later serving as a waitress and at a Navy Yard, she spotted an opportunity in 1964. She inquired about a retail space, learned the rent was $85 a month, and decided to open a jewelry store without any hesitation. That decisive moment launched a legacy that continues today, with her daughter and granddaughter now involved in the family business, learning from a master.
So, what is the daily routine that supports such a long and active career? Ann shares that it boils down to a disciplined approach to self-management. She believes you must get up, you must shower, you must eat, and you must take care of yourself. Furthermore, she emphasizes the necessity of exercise to maintain the energy required for business. Perhaps her most valuable piece of advice for any entrepreneur is to ensure you love what you do; if you don’t, you must have the courage to change your path.
Ann Angeletti is more than a business owner; she is a testament to the idea that a career built on passion and disciplined by simple, healthy habits can be a lifelong joy. Her story challenges the conventional narrative of retirement and serves as an inspiration to entrepreneurs of all ages. She proves that success isn’t just about the profits you make, but about building a meaningful life’s work that you never want to leave, proving that the most valuable asset a business can have is a purpose-driven leader.
