Happiness

Question: What makes true happiness, and how can I be happy without needing to be dependent on anybody else?

Nikki:

1. Don't compare yourself to other people. 
2. Step back in the situation you are in, and look at the funny. 
3. Think only thirty minutes ahead. 
4. Continue Reading. 

First, and foremost; there is no particular definition to happiness. One persons happiness, is not what your happiness is supposed to look like. If you compare other peoples reasons for smiling, you will never find yourself happy, because you will never be living in their life.
Happiness comes when you find things in your everyday routine that makes you happy. They are not supposed to be theatrical acts. If you think dramatic things that you would like to do to be happy, then you are setting yourself up for failure. Of course, there is nothing wrong with wanting a big splurge for yourself, but when the time is right. If you're financially/emotionally in a rut, then there is absolutely no reason for you to be thinking about all these big things you want to do in your life.
The things that helps me most in my life, is thinking 30 minutes ahead. If I'm at work, or in class, I find it's easy to stress about everything else I have to do in the next 12 hours. But if I look up for a moment, close my eyes, and focus on the first 30 minutes, I am able to relax my nerves and focus on the present.
(While you do take a step back from your current situation, look around and notice everybody's serious faces. It's always a little funny to think what is going on in their minds).

It's also important to remember that you're not alone when you are feeling down, or tired. I used to be one to always think that I was the only one stressed, and tired in my days. When I would look, all I focused on was everybody's lively energy, which would stress me out even more (I will take whatever they're having, please).  But  it was a vicious cycle, because it got to the point where I was stressing my self out when I wasn't up to par with everyone else. I find if you really take a step back, and look at your situation, keep your cool, and think of one thing to do at a time, you will dramatically improve your days.

The second part of your question is as simple and direct as the need to accept being dependent on other people. There is nothing wrong with wanting other people in your life, and needing other people to talk to. It's human nature. We've been communicating, and relying on other people for the past generations, and we will continue to do so.