Over the past years strength has become a quality so so important to me as I've attempted to embody it, as well as aiming to surround myself with incredibly strong, positive people. I think it's a trait that often goes under-appreciated, but to me, it's one of the most valuable qualities you can have; both physically and mentally. Strength to me is a synonym for overcoming; strength is getting back up, knowing how to care for yourself, accepting your own emotions. But strength has so many connotations and means different things and resonates differently with everyone. Everyone has a personal story about strength and I truly believe those stories deserve to be celebrated.

I'm lucky enough to know so many incredible people and I see lots of signs of strength daily on social media- so I decided to chat to some people about the idea of strength and what it means to them, in their life...

"Having a soft heart in a cruel world is courage not weakness"

The second I decided to start this project, I knew Simmy Hoonjan had to be the first person I talked to. At only 15, Simmy is one of the most incredibly strong, inspiring, positive girls I've ever had the privilege of talking to and working with. She's a blogger, writer and self-love advocate.

Here's our chat about what strength means to her-

Could you tell me what strength means to you?

Strength is such a broad word and I feel as if there are so many different interpretations. Of course there is physical strength but I personally believe that personal strength is much more important. This is the strength that pushes you to keep trying even when you feel like giving up. It's the strength that allows you to get through whatever life is throwing at you whilst knowing that you are going come out much stronger. To me strength is something that you will develop whilst you are in different situations which you may find uncomfortable and given no other option but to get yourself out of them by holding on to possibilities.

Has there been a time when strength has been really evident in your life?

I never really valued the idea of strength until I reached year 10 which was last year. At the beginning of the year I didn't feel like myself. I changed incredibly and found it difficult to be content with myself. I moved on regularly and didn't settle down easily because I was afraid of being happy. I was extremely self critical to myself and allowed everything to get to me personally. My 14 year old self began to crumble away slowly and it felt as if any event would wear away at me even more. I got so weak and my mind was completely consumed with negative thoughts that did me no good whatsoever. I guess you could call it my lowest point so far? I would cry every single day and was in cycle that seemed impossible to break. I felt hopeless and I hated myself because I didn't feel good enough for anything. BUT - I got out. I continued to change and evolve into the person I am now by swapping my negative thoughts with positive thoughts. I found out that happiness can only be sourced from within. I began to be open about the battles I was facing and realised what a healthy relationship was. I met a selection of amazing people and began to see life in a whole new way. I realised that my journey was different to every other person and embarked on a journey of self love. I learnt about myself and spent time with myself to give myself a value. I am the best that I have ever been right now. It only shows what a difference a year can make!