5 Empowering Documentaries That Girl Watches to Grow
The “that girl” trend isn’t just about aesthetic routines and perfectly curated Instagram feeds—it’s a mindset. It’s about growth, wellness, productivity, and purpose. Behind the green smoothies and 6 a.m. workouts lies a deep desire to evolve—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
One underrated tool in the self-growth journey? Documentaries.
They offer real-life insight, raw stories, and life-changing lessons that can’t be captured in a TikTok clip. In this blog post, we’re diving into five documentaries that every “that girl” watches to grow—and why you should too.
If you’re on a mission to level up your life, these are the films you’ll want to binge next.
1. The Minimalists: Less Is Now
Minimalism is more than just a clean aesthetic—it’s a way of life. This Netflix documentary, created by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, explores how less clutter can lead to more freedom, happiness, and mental clarity.
Why Every “That Girl” Needs to Watch It:
- Encourages you to declutter your space and your mind.
- Emphasizes purpose-driven living over material accumulation.
- Inspires intentional habits and simplified routines.
Takeaway: Growth starts when you let go of what no longer serves you—physically and emotionally.
2. Stutz (2022)
In Stutz, actor Jonah Hill turns the camera on his therapist, Dr. Phil Stutz, to uncover practical tools for emotional healing. It’s intimate, raw, and radically empowering.
What Makes It a Must-Watch:
- Provides concrete tools for managing anxiety, self-doubt, and depression.
- Reveals the value of self-work and emotional intelligence.
- Reframes mental health as something powerful, not shameful.
“That girl” knows that true glow-ups come from the inside out.
3. Heal (2017)
Combining science, spirituality, and personal testimonies, Heal dives deep into the mind-body connection. It uncovers how our thoughts and beliefs can influence physical health.
Highlights for Growth-Focused Viewers:
- Features thought leaders like Deepak Chopra and Dr. Joe Dispenza.
- Teaches the importance of mindful living and positive belief systems.
- Connects emotional healing with physical wellness.
When You’re Feeling Stuck or Drained…
Heal offers a fresh perspective on wellness and reminds us that we are more powerful than we think—especially when it comes to our own healing journey.
4. Becoming (2020)
Based on Michelle Obama’s best-selling memoir, Becoming is a deeply personal look at her journey from the South Side of Chicago to the White House—and beyond.
Why This Is a Growth Essential:
- Showcases resilience, grace, and the power of finding your voice.
- Encourages personal evolution at every life stage.
- Highlights how authenticity is the true form of beauty.
Inspiration for Ambitious Women
Michelle’s story is a reminder that greatness often comes from ordinary beginnings—and that evolving into your best self takes courage and conviction.
5. My Octopus Teacher (2020)
This Academy Award-winning documentary tells the story of a filmmaker who forms an unlikely bond with an octopus in a South African kelp forest. The lessons? Surprisingly deep.
Life Lessons From the Ocean Floor:
- Teaches presence, patience, and respect for nature.
- Shows the power of stillness and observation.
- Reminds us of the beauty in simplicity and connection.
When You Need to Slow Down and Reflect
“My Octopus Teacher” offers a meditative escape that realigns you with the present moment—something every “that girl” needs in a fast-paced world.
Conclusion
Being that girl isn’t just about external habits—it’s a lifelong commitment to inner evolution. The documentaries shared in this post offer diverse, deeply moving insights into what it means to grow intentionally, love consciously, and live purposefully.
Here’s a quick recap of the 5 must-watch documentaries:
- The Minimalists: Less Is Now – For decluttering your space and mind
- Stutz – For emotional growth and resilience
- Heal – For holistic wellness and self-healing
- Becoming – For ambition, authenticity, and self-discovery
- My Octopus Teacher – For mindfulness and inner peace
Whether you’re journaling your goals, revamping your routines, or simply trying to find your next source of inspiration—these films are your emotional and mental reset.
