Holiday Highlight Reel: Are You a Joy Jumper or a Last-Minute Maverick?

The holidays are like a big game, and everyone has their own play style. Some of us bring the energy and excitement, turning every moment into a highlight reel. Others thrive under pressure, waiting until the final seconds to make their move. Today, we’re talking about two holiday MVPs: the Joy Jumper and the Last-Minute Maverick. Both make the season unforgettable in their own way.

A favorite holiday tradition of mine that stands out was doing White Elephant every year while I was at Purdue. It was such a fun and interesting experience because we were always such a close-knit group. Everyone really put time and effort into finding that little something special for the other person. At times the gifts were actually useful, and we were like, “Ahhhhh, smart gift!” Other times someone would really think outside the box and get something hilarious. That could be a provocative gift or even funny T-shirts made about the other person. For me, after I hurt my back, I would always get a cane—especially as I became the older person on the team. The guys really loved getting me canes. I am set on canes now!

Mason’s Advice for Joy Jumpers

Your energy is contagious, and that’s what makes you the life of the party. But here’s the thing: even the best scorers need to pass the ball sometimes. Let others take a shot too. Share the spotlight, and you’ll make the holiday highlight reel even better.

My favorite high-intensity moment around Christmas was our game nights. I always loved the energy and competitiveness everyone brought to the table. Everyone knew what time it was after we ate because before the meal we would just watch TV, chit-chat, and maybe play a couple of warm-up rounds of games. But after the meal, it was go time. We would play anything from Chinese checkers to different variations of cards (which I would always lose), and my grandma would always win. No one knew how she was so good, but no matter what game it was, she was always the patient silent killer—the ultimate Last-Minute Maverick. Even when we played Life or Monopoly, she would act like she had less than she did, but in the end, no one was close to her. She was definitely the Last-Minute Maverick, while my sister was always the Joy Jumper. She would get so excited every time she won a single round, and across the table my grandma would just have a small smirk on her face. Me, on the other hand? I would easily lose track of the game and just try to crack jokes or get other people off their game.

Mason’s Advice for Last-Minute Mavericks

Your clutch plays are legendary, but even buzzer-beaters need a good game plan. Try to set up a few plays early so you’re not always taking the final shot under pressure. A little prep can make the holidays less stressful and even more fun.
Why We Need Both

Every great team needs energy and clutch performance. Joy Jumpers keep the vibe alive, and Last-Minute Mavericks make sure the game ends with a win. Together, they make the holidays exciting and unforgettable.