helgi... thanks for stating the obvious. The truly obvious. The real way for an introvert. I've done, in the past, much as you described - the two main options most introverts go. Stay an introvert, which isn't fun, or "try" to be an extrovert. It's never worked.
Even when I "am" an extrovert, I'm rarely happy with the results, like there's something missing even though I all of a sudden have so many acquaintances. I'd give up all of them if only I could have one person, one friend with whom I could connect on a deeper level, the only level that really matters.
And I agree with you wholeheartedly on the best solution - only interact with people on a deeper level, and stop trying to project a false personality for the sake of small talk. Like fast food, it isn't good for you, and doesn't give you much. Being deeper will attract something deeper.
I also think that, as a general rule, if you're not enjoying it, neither is the other person. If trying to be social is a real strain for you, it's not fun for the other person on the receiving end either. Friendship is a 2-way, mutually beneficial exchange. It's either beneficial to both, or to neither. So use your own feelings as a litmus test for whether you're doing the right thing.
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