Regarding trying to become more of a non-conformist. I absolutely recommend it, but be prepared for lots of blowback from some folks.
Non-conformity is most definitely frowned upon. Even here.
It's worth it though. I'm much happier going against the grain as often as possible.

1. Join groups, especially ones that have topics you enjoy. Look for groups that have more than 80 members, ensuring they have more traffic than those with under 20 members.
2. Make replies to people who post.
3. Make posts in groups, starting off topics especially posts that asks people what they think, what they feel, what they do, etc. Be engaging.
4. Make a group with a topic that interests you. This may flop but try anyway.
5. Don't forget to leave a trail of memes that may not have anything to do with the topic or your posts/replies.
6. Piss on the prissy overlords once you've found the wrong group. They'll kick yer butt out of the group but what the hell? Were you having fun there? As a great old upstate New York proverb says "Fuck 'em if they can't take a joke."
7. Add links to your posts that expostulate whatever you said.
8. Now for something totally different to observe #5

Free beer is always a great place to start.
JK.
IMHO, I think the best way to go is just be honest when chatting,commenting etc.
I've through time have gained quite a few friends that way.
And if there are those that can't handle your honesty, then it was never going to be fruitful anyway.

I think a lot of people here are smart enough to know when some one is just saying what they want to hear as to just be liked. That's a big reason I think it's best to just really speak your mind for better or worse.

Yes, doing so has had some block me. Yet, I've also gained friends as well.
That is how I am IRL also.

Don't be afraid to communicate with those outside your area. It worked for @DharmaBum50 and I. After 3 visits (8 weeks total) and a year of communicating honestly, we live together since late April. Good luck!

I've found that when you jump into some different groups and respond to comments you tend to make friends a little quicker. There are quite a few different groups to choose from so look around and find some that interest you and start writing. There are a lot of really great people on the site. Good luck.

Welcome to the asylum. Enjoy your stay.

As another member has suggested, it's much easier to find new friends within groups.

Good luck.

You will like the community here.

Get involved. Get to know as many members as possible.

Wing it

Howdy and welcome here.

Welcome

Dick pics

This place is a welcome reprieve from general Kansasdom. Enjoy!

Just participate and have fun.

Take the plunge and jump in feet first, after all we are, mostly, ALL friends here.

Good luck...! Lots of advice below, I see you especially like @WonderWartHog99’s tips!

Welcome!

To learn how to gain points and the perks of different levels:

1. Open your profile. On the right, find the heading, Level.

2. Click on your underlined points to the right of Level.

Voila! This will take you to the Levels Page.

getting the most out of ag dot com requires putting the most in. follow the good advice in items 1-4 of WonderWartHog99 below. realize that the rest of the advice is a joke and laugh but don't do it.

g

Attend local Atheists events in KCMO KCKS and invite all there to expand participation here like you are now

Welcome. You seem to have it well figured out

You're off to a good start! Welcome!

If you are wanting to date, two of your photos (you and a (same) woman are visible. That implies a current relationship.

I’m just guessing, but that may. It be the message you want to portray.

Put an ad in your local paper inviting non believers to the website. It's a crap shoot hoping someone living near you will just happen to stop by.