Maybe a lot of it comes from the fact that I don't really see results in my legs (and my calves are pathetic).
Squatting just kills me. I have back problems to begin with so I tighten the belt within an inch of my life. Plus my stance is effed up. I absolutely cannot stand with my feet the exact same, my left foot needs to be a little more turned out and ahead, it's just my natural stance, but I'm constantly trying to fix it.
You hate it because you dont know what you are doing when you get the bat under your back. Learn proper technique go to youtube and watch the video series "so you think you can squat?" it will change the way you look at squatting for the rest of your life. Most powerlifters I know and train with love squatting because it takes so long to perfect but when you do it is a beautiful thing mate.
Your belt is too tight as well loosen it up one or two notches and focus on sucking air into your belly and expanding it like your pregnant it gives you a stronger girthier center to squat with.
Your mobilty needs work if you cannot break your hips past your knees. It is actually kind of a big issue and is not helping your back pain. Look into the agile 8 and perform it before every training session. It is 10 minutes but it will open your hips up like Lindsay Lohans legs at a coke party.