Just because something seems to make other people happy doesn't mean that it really does. People are very good at pretending they're happy, especially when they've invested so much into the things that are supposed to make them happy; it's hard to admit that you've been placing all your eggs in the wrong basket. When you're purposely trying to be happy or cheerful, but just can't seem to achieve it at the moment, do something crazy. It's stupid, crazy, weird stuff like that that seems pointless, but could actually lift your mood after you do it, just because you're glad you did it. Most fundamentally, recognize that happiness is a state of mind and not something which can be defined objectively. You can change your state of mind in many ways including these suggestions: Turn your favorite music up loud and do a stupid dance to it. Talk to yourself in the mirror. Try a new food. Rearrange your room in a weird way. Write a funny or inspir...