Joy Wasted with KB Dickey

The holidays are here, and while the world is twinkling with lights and jingling with bells, there’s a subtle, unspoken reminder we all need to hear: Don’t be a ho, ho, ho. But hold up! I’m not talking about Santa’s catchphrase. Let’s dig a little deeper and flip this playful phrase into something powerful and transformational. Here’s how to keep the season merry by avoiding three common pitfalls—Holding Onto, Half-Organized, and Habitually Overextending.

H.O. #1: Holding Onto

We all know the feeling of dragging around a heavy suitcase of grudges, unnecessary stress, and outdated emotions. And let me tell you, sis, it’s exhausting. Holding onto negativity doesn’t just weigh you down; it robs you of your joy, your energy, and your ability to move forward.

This holiday season, give yourself the ultimate gift: let it go. Forgive that friend who canceled plans. Release that guilt from something you did years ago. Drop the stress of trying to create a Pinterest-perfect holiday. When you clear out the emotional clutter, you make room for the joy, love, and peace you’re craving.

Quick Tip:

Take five minutes each morning to write down one thing you’re letting go of. Then, physically tear up the paper and toss it. There’s power in the act of release!

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H.O. #2: Half-Organized

Let’s be real: life gets messy, and sometimes we’re just winging it. But being Half-Organized is a recipe for chaos, especially during the busiest season of the year. Not knowing where you’ve stashed those gift receipts, forgetting key deadlines, or juggling too many to-dos in your head can leave you frazzled and frustrated.

This is your reminder to take a break and get it together. No, you don’t need to have your life color-coded in a planner, but having a simple system can work wonders. Plan your day, prioritize your tasks, and make time for what truly matters. Remember, being organized isn’t about perfection—it’s about creating breathing room in your life.

Quick Tip:

Try a “Sunday Reset” where you plan out your week ahead. List three non-negotiables for each day, and don’t forget to schedule downtime for yourself!

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H.O. #3: Habitually Overextending

Raise your hand if you’ve ever said yes to something you didn’t really have the bandwidth for. (Guilty!) Habitually overextending yourself is a one-way ticket to burnout, and during the holidays, the stakes are even higher. Between work parties, family gatherings, gift exchanges, and year-end projects, it’s easy to spread yourself too thin.

Here’s the truth: saying no is not selfish—it’s strategic. When you protect your time and energy, you’re able to show up fully for the things and people that matter most. This season, let’s prioritize quality over quantity.

Quick Tip:

Before committing to anything, pause and ask yourself: “Does this align with my priorities? Do I genuinely have the time and energy for this?” If the answer is no, feel empowered to pass.

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Final Thoughts

The holidays should be about joy, connection, and celebration—not about carrying unnecessary baggage, running on fumes, or drowning in disorganization. So, as you move through this season (and beyond), remember: don’t be a ho, ho, ho. Release what doesn’t serve you, organize your life to create ease, and protect your energy fiercely.

You deserve a holiday season that feels light, bright, and oh-so-right—and it starts with choosing to let go, step up, and say no when needed. Let’s make it happen, one H.O. at a time!

Your Joy Junkie!