It's really tricky what you are asking, and then the way you are asking it. Just try to be bubbly and see where it gets you. I'm guess that it's a numbers game. There's some rejection, you move on, some brief friendliness, you move on, and then if it amounts to anything you're expected to perform in a way that doesn't feel right.

Being approachable as a tactic for connection is weird. People swinging swords aren't approachable, but I kind of want to talk to them. Stand from a distance and ask if they are training to avenge their father or something.

Do the approaching.

A simple "hi" will let you know if people want to chat by their response. The context is important. Don't do it a random person returning a box of chicken tenders at Wal-Mart. Do it after seeing the same movie, hiking on the same tail, or same section at the library. You might find someone that has the similar joys and miseries.