What techniques does Hilary Erickson suggest for coping with unexpected life challenges?

Lower, flexible expectations: Not assuming pregnancy, birth, or parenting will be all “unicorns and rainbows,” so you’re pleasantly surprised instead of constantly disappointed.

Expect the unexpected: Knowing there will be hard, messy parts and that this is normal, not a failure.

Savor the good moments on purpose: For example, really noticing when baby moves and when your partner or other kids feel those kicks, so you have positive memories to lean on during harder days.

Keep things simple: I talk about not overcomplicating things and “untangling” the mental snarls we create by expecting everything to go perfectly.