Agree! I think you tried the best. Something you can not change or it is hard to change such as personality. The relationship with the boss is very important not only in the aspect of job performance but also the personal relationship. I think it is hard to reach the same level as american because of the language and culture. They can say something bad in a very nice and polite way. They can have a chat about what they did when they were in high school etc, and those communications really lubracate the relationship. Do not be too sad, be realistic. If they do not want to reward your hard work, then leave them.