How to stop caring about what people think?

[Youdontknowme1234]

I'm not very popular in school, and that's because I'm so shy I never really could feel comfortable with the extrovert kids that seem to dominate the place when I joined.
I also am suffering with quite a bit of social anxiety resulting from trying to be good enough for everyone's expectations. And I realize that is a bad mentality to have, so how do I stop it and just stop caring about what people think of me, having the confidence to be myself?

Side note: I have quite a few friends, it's just a lot of people (popular kids) see me as very quiet because I don't talk to them.

Updates:

[Madhatter920]

I'd say to keep in mind that school is temporary and only actually a small part of your life. Popularity and school cliques pass as you all grow up and eventually go your separate ways.

Social anxiety is tough to deal with, but the more you put yourself outside of your comfort zone, the easier it will get. The first steps are definitely the hardest.

If you're like most of us, you're always going to care at least a little bit about what people think of you. That's normal. We would all like to be liked. You just have to learn to balance that with also being true to who you are and proud of that person you see in the mirror. That's something you just have to learn through experience.

Keep an eye on what's important. Chances are the opinions of strangers you don't actually want anything to do with probably isn't going to be the thing that enriches your life. ;)

[Mr_Peterson]

I used to be afraid to dress the way I do and use the name I do, because I was afraid of what people would think, but when I plucked up the courage I received many compliments and was glad I had done so.

[Emanon_18]

It’s hard for people who have good heart,