The week between Christmas and New Year’s always feels different.

The rush slows. The noise softens. And there’s finally space to reflect on the year that was—what went well, what changed unexpectedly, and what still hurts.

In this reflective New Year’s episode, I’m sharing an honest look at a year that didn’t unfold the way I envisioned it would. From unexpected job changes, to watching my oldest prepare to graduate high school and head to college, to the emotional shift of having one child at home, this year brought transitions I didn’t see coming.

I’m also pulling back the curtain on my work as a college counselor—celebrating the fact that my one-on-one students have earned more than one million dollars in scholarships this year, while also acknowledging the families who are still waiting, navigating disappointment, or trying to make sense of decisions that didn’t land as hoped.

This episode isn’t about New Year’s resolutions or forced optimism.

Instead, we’re talking about:

• Why perspective can’t be rushed in the college admissions process
• How parents can hold pride and disappointment at the same time
• Why I choose intentions over resolutions
• What my word for the year ahead—alignment—really means
• And how to enter the new year with honesty, steadiness, and grace

Alignment, for me, is about noticing when something looks right on paper but no longer feels right in real life. It’s about clearer priorities, kinder boundaries, and allowing parenting, work, and personal values to move in the same direction.

If you’re a parent navigating high school, college admissions, or big family transitions—and you’re feeling caught between what was and what’s next—this episode is for you.

In This Episode, We Talk About:

• Reflecting during the week between Christmas and New Year’s
• Parenting through high school graduation and college transitions
• The emotional side of scholarships, acceptances, and waiting
• Why resolutions often add pressure—and intentions create space
• Choosing alignment in parenting, business, and life
• A gentler way to step into the new year

For Parents Listening

You don’t need grand resolutions or perfect clarity right now. You just need support that meets you where you are.

Thank you for trusting me with this season of your life.

Here’s to alignment when it comes, patience while it doesn’t, and believing the story is still unfolding.

Lindsay | The College Counseling Mom

If you’re a parent navigating high school, college admissions, or the many transitions that come with raising teens, you’re in the right place.

I’m Lindsay, a college counselor and parent who believes thoughtful guidance matters—especially for the awesomely average kid. The student who isn’t chasing prestige, but still deserves smart planning, clear strategy, and a path that truly fits.

You can explore ways to work with me, learn about upcoming programs, or find additional resources at www.thecollegecounselingmom.com and sign up for my weekly newsletter here.

If this episode was helpful, I’d be so grateful if you’d follow the show, leave a review, or share it with another parent who could use steady, grounded support.

Thanks for being here. I’m honored to walk this season with you.
Lindsay | The College Counseling Mom