Well you could take @Doc advice or you may end up like me. Honestly with the childhood you had I’m surprised you’re still try being friendly. Just saying since it seems we had similar upbringings and experiences with ppl.
Not saying you have to move how I do but honestly I think I stopped caring about fitting in around the time I was in 9th grade. Ironically the less I cared about fitting in since then, the more people wanted to socialize with me. Kind of speaks to that old principle, what you chase runs away.
Not accusing you of being desperate of course. I get it man, you wanna be the chill guy that gets along easily with folks but honestly the world’s full of dislikable ppl. 10 years ago when I made the choice to start focusing on myself more and start getting in touch with my inner “jerk” I found that others started responding to me better (ironically). Most times I was never a jerk for no reason but I think that decision started to unleash an energy that ppl became drawn to. Someone who’s comfortable doing they’re own thing no matter what seems to draw ppl in, even when you want them to stay away from you lol.
You don’t have to be cold to everyone, just start off neutral and give back the energy ppl give you. Do your best to give fair treatment, one way or the other. Just always remember that no matter how cool someone seems it’s best not to trust them 100% just in case. Don’t share anything with them that you don’t want others finding out about.
Just focus on liking, and more importantly loving yourself by focusing on your self improvement and just be you. Ppl will either like you or they won’t but trust me, you’ll live either way. The relationship you have with yourself will always be your most important, no matter how anyone else feels about you.