A centenarian who continues to work nearly every day has shared her life wisdom, offering insights into her daily routines and key habits.
Ann Angeletti, a jeweler by profession, at the age of 101 has amassed a wealth of experience. Her dedication is evident as she continues to work in the Diamond District, earning the admiration of her clients through her commitment and hard work.
In an interview with ABC7 NY, Ann recounted her early start in the workforce, having left school to assist at her family’s grocery store in Brooklyn.
Her father worked as an ice seller, delivering door to door using a horse-drawn cart, which was before the advent of refrigeration.
During World War II, when her husband was deployed, Ann took on a waitressing job at the Navy Yard. Since then, she has maintained her entrepreneurial spirit.
Inspired by her years of experience, she established Curiosity Jewelry in Cresskill.
With her daughter and granddaughter now part of her team, Ann emphasizes that her work is integral to her life.
“If I retire, I would die,” she remarked. “I was driving by, the store was for rent, and I called the owner and asked him, how much is the rent, and he said $85 a month in 1964.”
Although her shop operates five days a week, Ann works six days a week consistently, finding fulfillment in her routine. She attributes her long and successful life to prioritizing self-care.
“You must get up, you must shower, you must eat, you must take care of yourself. You must exercise,” she advised. “If you don’t like what you’re doing, then change.”
Ann expressed her passion by stating, “Make the most of that day. I’m happy working every day.”
In New Jersey, The Daily Mail reports that there are approximately 2,646 people aged 100 or older. Newsweek highlights Hawaii as having the most centenarians in the US, with 44.4 per 100,000 residents.
Ann’s story has struck a chord with many, with viewers calling her an ‘inspiration.’ One admirer suggested she had ‘won the genetic lottery.’
While it’s unclear if Ann indeed won this genetic lottery, there was a woman who technically did.
Maria Branyas Morera, once recognized as the world’s oldest person, lived to 117 before passing away in August 2024.
Before her death, she asked researchers to examine her longevity, which was found to be largely attributed to her genes.