I think you're just trying to hard. I'm a hermit, damn near a recluse, and completely anti-social. But, back in the day I was always, always really good with people; I was always able to talk to strangers and stuff. As I got older, even though I became more anti-social, my social skills haven't deadened any.

In speech there is a name for what you're doing, I can't remember what the word is now, but the definition is, basically, saying or acting in a certain manner only to gain the acceptance of your target audience. Same goes with social speaking and conversational skills; if you think too hard on what to say or do, you're just doing it to gain the acceptance of your target [whoever].

Be yourself. Talk about what you want to talk about. If the people you surround yourself with are into what you are into, you'll get along; speaking about "little things" just for the sake of trying to win a few people over is good for you, ya?

Plus, I've found that if you're anti-social, as you seem to be, the best thing to do is just let someone else start conversation and follow the breadcrumbs they leave in their wake.