In real life, I have found it works very well.
I also quite giving a damn about what people think of me. Has made my life a whole lot easier. And if you think about it, what good does it do you? Make an impression on some waitress. Big deal. (Unless you are going ask her out.) What does it matter if she thinks your an ***? Now I'm not saying treat people like crap. But be yourself. (Unless, yourself treats people like crap, then you need help.) And if they don't like you, BFD. It's not going to change your life. I hear the same thing with peoples feelings, "He hurt my feelings". While going through counseling years ago my counselor told me that only "I" can let someone hurt my feelings. And once I get that, life becomes easier. Ever see my statement. "I have been called worse by better people than you." That's were that came from. If I think your a jerk, what difference does it make in your life? Zero. So why care? Wasted energy. Most people in your life will come and go. Other than relatives you may have 20-30 people you have to deal with on a monthly basis. And either they need something from you, or you need something from them. Chances are, your not inviting them to your birthday party. And chance are, within 2 years they will be replaced by someone else. If we are lucky, we have some really good friends. And by really good friends, these are people who will help bury the body without asking questions until the drive home. They are in your life for a long time, and you know what? You don't need to impress them. They take you for what and who you are. If they don't, they won't last and hence, not a real good friend. You may think I'm wrong and that's fine. It works form me, and several people I know.
BTW, HRE, that's not directed at you, just information in general for everyone.