Well, this is the top most search now a days. As every individual is facing some or the other issues in their lives. Many of them end up searching for the ways to be happy. There is no shame in looking for the ways that can make you feel better. We all do.
To be happy first you should know what exactly happiness is.
Happiness is something natural. And one can never be happy if he himself want's to be in a bad mood. If you decide to be happy, You will. No matter what all mess you are carrying with you.
The art of being happy lies in the power of extracting happiness from common things. Once I read somewhere - Happiness is the "secret sauce" that can help us to grow and do our best.
“Doing what you like is freedom. Liking what you do is happiness."
Smile: Even if your life is full of mess just keep a smile on your face (doesn't matter if you fake a smile) and deliver the thought of being happy to your brain. (Guys just try it once you will see the difference).
Do what makes you happy: Every person is unique in his own way. Look for something that makes you feel better. Take out some time from your busy schedule and do anything you feel like. Do things which makes you feel fresh and energetic. Simple actions like playing with a child or a pet or going for a walk can work.
Balance your emotions: Knowing how to manage our negative emotions is also key to happiness. Difficult emotions are a fact of life. Remember, every emotion has it's own value. So, value all of them. Once, you know how to deal with emotion's, you can manage your life in a better way.
Access your creativity to solve problems: Reduce the chatter in your head by listening to moving music, by meditating, by chanting. Solutions often bubble up from the subconscious when the conscious mind floats.
Find something to distract you: Take a real break from thinking about your problems when you're not actively engaged in solving them. Distract yourself. Get your mind off your situation by doing things that make you happy maybe dancing, or sketching or whatever it may be. We all have activities that makes us feel alive.
Think Positive: It’s all part of your journey. So rather than complaining, take it in a positive way and enjoy the journey. The stepping stone or the road block that you face helps you get to the next path, or become a better person. Everything happens for a reason. We are meant to go through tough times to see our lives and ourselves in a different light.
Carry some craziness: Think of how kids carry themselves. How they makes you feel better. Don't forget the child which is inside you. It's not necessary to act as a mature one always. Maturity matters but little of craziness can charge you in minutes.
All in all, I would say that be the real you and don't force yourself to do things. Learn to say no for the things you don't like and live the life in your own way. Remember all the quotes, facts on happiness require actions on our part and actions require decisions.