“I Just Want To Be Happy Again!”
I just want be happy again” was written to reach out to anyone and everyone who is looking for encouragement and how to come back to themselves and be the happy, positive and productive person they were in the past.
Feeling sad and longing for happiness is a common human experience. Why can’t I be happy is a familiar cry from many in the world today. We all want to experience joy again.
I myself, having experienced acute post-partum depression, know first-hand this emotional need of just wanting to be happy again. In fact, I wrote a book about my experience, ‘The Power of Unexpected Miracles’ , and then later became a certified facilitator for NAMI (National Alliance of Mental Illness) for Tarrant County, Texas. This feeling can come from many sources – depression, anxiety, life changes, or even situations like postpartum challenges for new mothers. Are you tired of being sad? Perhaps you don’t even know why you’re sad. Get back to your ‘happy place’. This post is meant for you!
Wouldn’t it be nice if we could just go back in time and experience that one childhood moment when we experienced happiness as a state of being — of feeling inexplicable joy?
That one incredible moment when everything in our world was perfect, inside and out. Why can’t I just be this happy again?
Have you caught yourself thinking that all the things that used to make you happy aren’t making you happy any longer? Sometimes the reason you can’t be happy is not that complicated.
Common Feelings When Happiness Seems Lost
- Exhaustion from constant negative emotions
- Confusion about why joy feels unreachable
- Loneliness and isolation
- Putting on a “brave face” while hurting inside
Why Happiness Might Feel Out of Reach
Many factors can block your path to happiness:
| Common Obstacles | How They Affect You |
|---|---|
| Unresolved grief | Prevents emotional healing |
| Comparison to others | Creates unrealistic expectations |
| Physical health issues | Drains emotional energy |
| Isolation | Reduces support and connection |
It’s important to understand that happiness and joy aren’t permanent states but rather experiences that come and go. Expecting constant happiness sets an impossible standard.
Moving Forward
You don’t need to tackle this journey alone. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Consider:
- Speaking with trusted friends or family
- Consulting a mental health professional
- Joining support groups (online or in-person)
- Using social media positively to connect with others
Finding your way back to happiness doesn’t mean lowering your expectations about life. Instead, it involves developing healthy daily habits and working toward becoming your ideal self. This process is deeply personal – what works for someone else might not work for you.
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Remember that healing from heartbreak, loss, or other difficult experiences takes time. You can’t force happiness, but you can create conditions where it’s more likely to return to your life.
Feeling Tired of Being Tired & Unhappy
Being stuck in a cycle of unhappiness can be exhausting. Many people long for those carefree moments from childhood when joy came naturally. When you’re constantly feeling down, it’s normal to wonder if you’ll ever experience genuine happiness again.
Your feelings are valid. Persistent unhappiness drains your energy and can make even simple tasks feel overwhelming. This emotional fatigue is a common experience during difficult life periods.
Consider these common signs of emotional exhaustion:
- Feeling constantly drained
- Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Struggling to get out of bed
- Finding little meaning in daily activities
- Withdrawing from social connections
Root Causes of Your Unhappiness
Understanding why you feel unhappy is the first step toward making positive changes. Your unhappiness might stem from several sources:
- Comparison trap: Constantly measuring your life against others (especially on social media)
- Unresolved past experiences: Carrying emotional wounds that haven’t healed
- Life transitions: Major changes like job loss, relationship endings, or health issues
Many people seek out the positive but struggle to maintain that mindset. Remember that happiness isn’t a constant state—it’s normal to experience a range of emotions throughout life’s journey.
Key insight: Taking time for yourself doesn’t need to be time-consuming but is essential for rebuilding your emotional reserves.
Happiness and Joy — Synonyms?
To answer this question, happiness and joy are two terms that are often used interchangeably. While they both denote positive emotion, happiness is more of a general term for feeling good, while joy is a more intense, specific emotion.
A smile is often a sign of happiness, but can also be a sign of joy. To live a happier life, focus on your well-being and mood. This is how I live my life.
Can you Force Yourself to be Happy?
You’re stronger than you realize and you have the power within you to choose to do whatever it takes to Make You Smile Again.
You should never force feelings or emotions upon yourself. … However, you can “trick” your brain into feeling happy by noticing things like smiling and engaging in things that you love.
You’re Not Alone…
For myself, I strive to spend the majority of my day smiling at others with the intent of making those I meet feel good about themselves. I even read somewhere that even with the act of smiling itself, it does seem to help.
Here’s the deal. Maybe your unhappiness is a type of depression. Would it surprise you to know that depression is a medical condition and is considered a genuine illness, just like the flu?
Did you know that depression comes in many forms, whether it be clinical depression, bi-polar, postpartum or even a relatively new one recently identified – smile depression.
Yes, you read correctly, smile depression and while I have firsthand experienced some of the others mentioned above as well, I can honestly tell you, smile depression is now a big concern of mine!
See also12 Hacks to Grow Through What You Go Through
Are you hiding behind a ‘forced’ smile?
Think about it. Usually, when you think of someone suffering from depression, they are friends who are noticeably sad and perhaps disengaged from their loved ones and everyday life. Possibly you can relate to this.
You, on the other hand, smile all day long — at work, playing with your kids and/or grandkids, with your spouse and when greeting others at the cashier’s line in the grocery store. You laugh, you smile, and you may ‘look’ happy. Yet you can’t seem to shake off the feelings of loneliness and sadness that are buried deep below your surface.
Do YOU Have Smile Depression?
According to Thai-An Truong, a mental health therapist at Oklahoma’s Lasting Change Therapy, “smiling depression” is also known as perfectly hidden depression. People suffering from smiling depression may outwardly appear happy and put together, but internally they are struggling with symptoms of depression.
Truong has shared her own experiences overcoming postpartum depression and anxiety, and aims to provide hope and healing to others going through similar challenges. By speaking openly about mental health issues like smiling depression, Truong works to reduce the stigma and shame that often accompany these conditions. Symptoms include similar to those of depression: low mood, sadness, low self-worth, isolation and hopelessness. Is this you?
Do you “put on a happy face in front of others“, hiding your vulnerability and even using laughter as a means to disguise your pain? Don’t deny it any longer if you suffer or know someone who does.
It’s this very reason that people, especially women, with smiling depression who look put-together on the outside avoid getting help. You may feel like ‘oh this too will pass’ and isn’t bad enough to warrant reaching out to get help or see a mental health professional.
Getting Help When You Need It
The good news is that help is actually closer than you think. The first step is to get yourself out of denial. Acknowledge that what you’re feeling is “real”.
Recognizing when you need help is the next crucial step toward feeling better. Don’t dismiss your feelings—they are valid and deserve attention.
Talk to someone you trust about what you’re experiencing. This could be a family member, coworker, community member, or your doctor.
And listen carefully, “If they discount your feelings, find SOMEONE ELSE. You must be your own self-advocate.”
Sure eating a better diet and getting daily exercise can obviously help too. But you know what? So does therapy. Or better yet, check out resources from NAMI (National Alliance of Mental Illness.) There may be a registered NAMI organization in your county.
And please, if you know of a friend or a family member who seems to have it all turns to you for comfort, please don’t dismiss them. Don’t tell them to be grateful for what they have. Instead, let that person know that you’re there to listen and support them.
This goes for anyone and everyone who is suffering any type of depression.
Use Social Media to Reach Out Too!
With the modern technology of today, there’s not a better time than to take advantage of using social media! You know and I know, we all like to hear that familiar ding’ announcing to us to let us know someone is sending a message.
Call, text, Facebook, or even email your friend(s) and engage with them in meaningful conversation! And yes, don’t forget to address them by their name. This is important, people feel ‘special’ when you call them by their name.
Connecting Through Social Networks
Social media can be a valuable tool when you’re feeling down. You can:
- Join support groups with people experiencing similar feelings
- Follow mental health professionals who share helpful advice
- Connect with old friends who might provide comfort
- Find local resources through community pages
For some people, messaging via social media actually allows you to ‘open up’ more than you would have if in person. Not everyone, but for those who are somewhat introverted, this is an excellent option to help you who may need this type of engagement to connect and have meaningful dialogue.
Creating Joy Without Compromising Standards
Finding happiness doesn’t mean you need to expect less from life. Happiness is a state of mind that comes from personal growth and self-care rather than lowering your expectations. In fact, setting higher standards can lead to greater fulfillment.
When you feel unhappy, consider these factors:
- Stress overload: Often unhappiness stems from being overwhelmed
- Self-care deficit: Neglecting your well-being affects your mood
- Unclear goals: Not having meaningful targets limits satisfaction
Instead of lowering your expectations, try these approaches:
- Journal regularly to process emotions and identify patterns
- Set meaningful challenges that push your boundaries
- Expect more from relationships and connections
Remember that achieving something you once thought impossible brings exceptional joy. The journey of self-improvement itself generates happiness as you witness your own progress.
Creating meaningful memories through ambitious pursuits gives you valuable experiences to reflect on. When you maintain high standards for yourself, you build a foundation for lasting contentment rather than temporary satisfaction.
As Mark Manson suggests, happiness isn’t a destination you reach but something you inhabit through your daily choices and mindset.
5 Ways to Rediscover Your Happiness
Feeling down lately? Let’s explore some practical approaches to help you find joy again in your everyday life.
1. Live in the Present Moment
Being present is crucial for happiness. When you constantly replay past negative events or worry about the future, you miss the beauty of now. Try these approaches:
- Practice gratitude for the good things currently in your life
- Appreciate small moments that bring unexpected joy
- Respond rather than react to difficult situations
Living in the present helps you break the cycle of negativity. When you focus on what’s happening right now, you create space for happiness to grow naturally.
2. Release Negative Thought Patterns
Negative thoughts drain your energy and block happiness. Here’s how to break free:
Steps to Let Go:
| Action | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Forgive past hurts | Releases emotional burden |
| Learn from mistakes | Opens path to growth |
| Distance from toxic relationships | Preserves mental health |
Remember that forgiving doesn’t mean forgetting—it means freeing yourself from carrying that emotional weight. When you let go of negativity, you make room for positive experiences.
3. Practice Acts of Kindness
Being kind creates a powerful ripple effect in your happiness. When you treat others well, you feel better about yourself too.
Consider:
- Offering a genuine compliment to someone
- Helping a stranger without expecting anything in return
- Listening fully when others speak
- Showing respect even in disagreements
These simple actions create immediate positive feelings. You don’t need grand gestures—small acts of kindness build up over time and transform how you feel about yourself and others.
4. Prioritize Physical Well-being
Your physical health directly impacts your mental state. Creating healthy habits provides a foundation for happiness:
Daily Wellness Practices:
- Exercise regularly to release mood-boosting endorphins
- Eat nutritious foods that fuel your body properly
- Stay hydrated throughout the day
- Take breaks from screens and social media
- Get adequate sleep to restore your mind and body
Even 15-30 minutes of movement daily can significantly improve your mood. Consider activities you enjoy—walking, dancing, swimming—anything that gets your body moving.
5. Embrace Laughter and Joy
Laughter truly is powerful medicine for unhappiness. When you laugh, your body releases endorphins that create natural feelings of well-being. Try to:
- Watch comedy shows or movies that make you laugh out loud
- Spend time with funny friends who lift your spirits
- Find humor in everyday situations
- Try laughter yoga or other intentional laughter practices
Don’t wait for happiness to find you—actively seek out experiences that bring joy and laughter into your life. Even forcing a smile can trigger positive feelings in your brain.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS!
1. I want to be happy again but I just don’t know how?.
From the section above, ‘5 Ways To Get Back To Happy’, the five ways are:
(1) you must live in the present;
(2) let go of negative thoughts;
(3) be kind;
(4) get healthy and have an active lifestyle; and
(5) laugh more and you will smile more. For more insight, please read this inspiring blog:
“Finding Happiness – 5 Easy Steps to Get Your Smile Back”
2. How do I move on and be happy again?
Sometimes the key to becoming happy again depends on WHY you’re so unhappy. Did you have a major life event or a breakup or are you having difficulty getting beyond forgiving someone who has hurt you deeply? For more insight, please read these inspiring blogs:
“The Power of Forgiveness can be a Life-changer.”
3. How do you get the joy back in your life?
Happiness is a choice. Make the conscious decision that you want to be happy again and bring joy back into your life. To help you in reclaiming your happiness and joy, find yourself again while facing life struggles, please read this inspiring blog about how gratitude can bring joy back into your life:
“Master the Art of Gratitude with These 15 Tips”
4. How can I be happy again after a broken heart?
It’s hard to rediscover your smile when you hurt inside. Time does indeed heal wounds. You must believe in the extraordinary healing power of finding your smile again and navigating your way back to living. To read more on tips on how to be happy again after a broken heart, check this blog out:
“5 Tips on How to Smile Again in Times of Struggle and Heartbreak”
5. Can you force yourself to be happy?
While it is a very true statement, that ‘happiness is a choice’, you simply cannot force yourself to be happy if you’re not willing to take acceptance first of your current situation.
I Just Want to Be Happy Quotes
Happiness is a feeling that everyone seeks. It can come from happy memories or from big things that satisfy us. However, sometimes it is the small, pleasant memories that make us truly happy.
They remind us to take care of ourselves and to enjoy the happy life we have been given. Smile and be grateful for the joy you have been given. True happiness comes from within.
That said, I present 10 of my favorite original and unique ‘I Just Want To Be Happy Quotes’ I wrote myself. (Also check out my latest published book entitled, “365 Daily Unique Quotes: A Year of Uplifting Your Spirit”, available on Amazon.)
“Smile… Smile More… Keep Smiling & Feel the Joy of Happiness!”
“Your Brand New Life Only Begins When You ‘Allow’ It To!”
“Gratitude Plus Intentional Kindness Equal ‘Sustained Happiness!”
“Let ‘Serendipity’ Find You & Shower You with Happiness!”
“Personal Happiness is How we Choose to Live Our Life. It’s Not a Destination, it is a ‘State of Being!’”
“There’s Nothing More Than Experiencing the Powerful Emotion of ‘Tears of Happiness!’
“Those Who do the Most for Others, are Those who are the Most ‘Happiest!’”
“Do You Want to Feel ‘Instantly Better? Then Simply Grin… Then Smile… Then ‘Laugh!’ RINSE & REPEAT!”
“‘Belly laughs’ are the highest vibration you can achieve of happiness!”
“See how happiness looks on you! SMILE at your mirror each morning!”
Related Blog Article:
Discover Made You Smile Back Blog
It’s Your Turn, Please Join In The Conversation!
So, have you experienced times in your life where you’ve experienced depression, sadness, heart-break, etc? Please share in the comments below some strategies you used to reclaim your happiness again.
