I have been asked the same question repeatedly these past few months. At first, I wondered if they think my situation is so depressing that they can't believe I'm still in good spirits. But I realized they were referring to themselves. While I am not a happiness guru, here are some of the things I do to stay positive and beat the blues:
1. Travel to places you haven't explored. It's a liberating experience.
2. Satisfy your cravings without feeling guilty.
3. Give up the things that cause you stress.
4. Don't over-analyze everything. The world is already a complex place.
5. That gnawing thing that's been in your bucket list since time immemorial? Just do it, for Pete's sake!
6. Believe and the universe will connive to make it work if it's really what's in your heart and mind. (This is a work in progress for me, too.)
7. Talk to strangers. Sometimes, it's easy to share your thoughts when you don't have to worry about being judged. You won't see them again anyway.
8. Say a personal prayer, as if you're confiding to a trusted friend. It will relieve you of your sorrow.
9. Do the silly dance when you're alone. And while you're at it, watch yourself in the mirror. This will instantly lift you up.
10. Volunteer for a good cause and help touch other people's lives. This will shift your perspective from "I, the depressed" to "them, who need help."