Realizing having social proof is very important to make new friends Maybe that is mostly in your head and is holding you back from making friends. Volunteer, take classes, go on group hikes, etc. If you are friendly I can’t see people being friendly back without first requiring you to provide a “friend history” like you were in a job interview. If they specifically ask you as they get to know you just tell them the truth. Shit happens, adults know that.