Why do I have such a hard time making friends?

You just haven't found the right group of people to stick with yet. Everyone has those times where we just don't fit it with others. I'm sure you'll find the perfect group. Just hang tight and be yourself. :D

I have a similar problem, it always feels as though I'm willing to bend for other people's interests and talk about what they like...but my interests are shut down constantly. It's not a problem with you, however, the problem lies in others. You just haven't met the right people for you. You haven't met people who appreciate you! Doesnt make those people bad or wrong, just different than you. Likeminded people are hard to find, so you'll have to settle until you get lucky. Try to join a book club or hiking group(not sure if those are abundant elsewhere, but in my area they are). That way you'll have something to discuss or enjoy with those people in your club.

Stop trying too hard to make friends. Start doing the things you love, do them more and more, and you will find your real friends... Maybe even the love of your life!

I am somewhat the same way...I am socially awkward. Also have bad anxiety. Guess that's what brought me here. Hope things get better for you!

M8, if you don't have much in common with the lads, why are you hanging out with them? There are enough people in the world for you to meet and befriend who have common interests. Reading and writing? Outdoor? That's great! Plenty of clubs and circles of people (such as outdoor organizations [hiking group, bear tracking, whatnot], reading clubs [to exchange books], etc.) in towns for people with these hobbies.

Find a crowd who likes the same things as you. It's the group of people that you're surrounding yourself with and attracting. So, find your crowd. Nothing more, nothing less. :)