do you manage to smile even you're not happy?

Yes I definitely could. I discovered I had this ability a few years back. I was in the verge of a breakdown from a long relationship which went crashing before me. Everyone didn't know about my predicament and work made it less easier when I was tasked to speak to a large crowd. It would have been okay if I had not been asked to project a joyous, confident and highly successful person, with all smiles and life's pleasantries. To make the long story short. I was able to do it, without anyone ever thinking that it was all an act. After the event, I went to the restroom and cried my eyes out and went home. After a while, I was able to tell my close co-workers about it, and they told me that they never knew there was something wrong. Anyhow, regardless what happened, I'm glad I got through it. But I'd never want that to happen again. It's difficult to appear tough when deep down inside you're dying to let it all out. =)

hi saludes. it is indeed not easy but smart people will do it. as you said it is a known effort, an artificial one but one has to going by the need of the situation. as in your case.and if you take the decision after you are free your decisions will be on merit of the case and not having the bias.

i usually do this... i smile a lot even if i am not happy... i tend to hide what im really feeling through my smile or laughter... but when i am alone, that is the time i think of my problems... at least i wont be bothering anyone.

Yes sometimes, but the people can sense that our smile is not sincere and they can feel that.

Yes, I could manage to smile. I am a happy person. When I am sad, I try to resolve it as soon as possible because it is really awkward for people to see me frowning. LOL. My problems are not their peoblem so why frown at them. I don't bring my problem to work. It stays in my bedroom. take care =)

i find that when i am around others, i always put on a fake face, i don't want others to see what my depression has done to me and just how bad i feel inside, i find it easier if others cannot see that depression

You bet, Same here, I never show my frowning face to eople coz Im used to smiling and I think its a good trait. It doesnt mean that one is fragile but on the contary, its a sign of composure.

think of something that makes you happy no matter what. family friends. pets. a memory anything.