> I'd rather withdraw into my mind and work on something interesting

Be careful that there are social penalties for behaving like that way. When people smell an air of arrogance, they implicitly punish you.

I recommend to trick yourself into believing that people around you are worth your time. Even if it's not really true. Even if it makes you die a little inside. Just try to make it work.

And when the opportunity comes to get rid of those people from your life, grab that chance with all your heart.

> they implicitly punish you

they can't punish me if I'm not there and don't depend on them.