‘That Girl’ Era is Over: Dominique Elissa on Sustainable Self-Improvement

April 30, 2025

For years, social media has glorified being ‘That Girl’ — early mornings, green juices, and the ever-elusive promise of self-improvement — wrapped up in an aesthetic so polished it could pass for a Pinterest board. But let’s be real, who actually kept it up past day one? With slow living redefining success, Dominique Elissa is proving that less really can be more. As a model, wellness advocate, and content creator, she’s redefining personal growth — not through hustle culture, but through the art of slow living, mindfulness, and sustainable self-improvement. In a society overwhelmed by endless notifications, fleeting trends, and the relentless urge to stay ahead, Dom prioritises intentional living.

Dominique Elissa knows all too well how fast life moves. But instead of chasing the next big thing, she’s found purpose in pressing pause and living with intention. On her podcast Selfdom — a name that speaks to the essence of self — she reveals personal growth not as a final destination, but as a continuous, ever-evolving journey because change is inevitable. But as Dom reminds us, adversity isn’t the end of the story—it’s the plot twist that leads to growth. And perhaps the greatest comfort of all? None of us are navigating it alone.

Our clothing choices are more than just a reflection of fleeting fashion trends — they influence our confidence, and even our overall well-being. Wellness extends beyond fitness and nutrition; It’s an integrated approach that focuses on nurturing every aspect of our being—mental, physical, and emotional. In her Selfdom episode, “Why What We Wear Impacts Our Overall Health,” Dom delves into the profound impact our wardrobe can have on us. Soft, breathable fabrics can lower stress levels, while harsh, synthetic materials may do the opposite. The way we express ourselves through fashion is a powerful form of self-expression, subtly communicating how we feel without a speaking a single word.

Dom highlights the deeper connection between self-perception and self-care, reminding us that the clothes we wear are a mirror reflecting how we nurture our mind, body, and soul. For Dom, this means rejecting the cycle of overconsumption — whether in fashion, beauty, or everyday life. She challenges the rise of fast fashion hauls, excessive skincare routines, and the pressure to constantly upgrade to the latest “must-have” items. Instead, she advocates for mindful purchasing, choosing quality over quantity, and investing in timeless pieces that align with both personal well-being and the planet.

She also understands the power of reflection, and, In “Just for Girls” Podcast Ep. 111, she introduces a guided journal self-designed to help clear the mind and set intentions—because real transformation starts from within. Each prompt is a moment of self-connection: “I will let go of…,” a release before bed to break the cycle of restless nights. “Today, I’m grateful for,” a reminder to reflect. “Tomorrow, I will focus on,” a conscious step forward. The final touch? A to-do list before bed, sealed with affirmations: “I light up any room I walk into. I say it, I believe it.” A simple practice, yet a powerful shift — because the way we end the day sets the tone for what’s next. 

Selfdom Gratitude Journal, $56.99. Shop here.

The conversations we are having should now shift the power of moving away from seeking external validation to finding peace within, reminding us that happiness isn’t about the constant hustle for achievement, but about fully embracing the present moment.

In a world still driven by hustle culture, Dom brings a refreshing perspective to self-improvement. She prioritises setting boundaries, protecting her energy, and making choices that serve her well-being —proving that success doesn’t have to come at the expense of balance. Her episode “Life Lessons I Will Be Taking into 2025 perfectly encapsulates this shift. In our fast-paced world, Dom emphasises the importance of tuning out distractions and focusing on what truly matters. As she reflects on previous years, she highlights the need to step away from comparison, break free from the grip of toxic productivity, and redefine success on a personal level. “I used to think success was about doing it all,” she admits, “but now I realise it’s about doing what feels right for me.”

Through her podcast and journalling, she inspires her audience to set boundaries — whether it’s limiting social media consumption, cultivating a serene home space, or embracing digital detox habits. She openly advocates for valuing deep, meaningful relationships over superficial connections and emphasises the importance of solitude for gaining clarity. Her approach isn’t about adding more to the to-do list—it’s about focusing on what genuinely adds value.

Dominique Elissa is redefining what it means to grow and evolve. Her philosophy is simple: self-improvement isn’t defined by aesthetics or praise, but by sustainability, balance, and inner peace. As ‘That Girl’ era gives way to a more mindful and intentional approach, Dominique is leading the charge. Her journey serves as a reminder that real wellness isn’t about chasing perfection—it’s about embracing the present. And in 2025, that’s the kind of self-evolution worth striving for.

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Gemma is an aspiring fashion journalist with ambitions of becoming an editor-in-chief, drawing inspiration from icons like Carrie Bradshaw, Andie Anderson, and Anna Wintour. With a sharp eye for storytelling and an obsession with all things style, she’s constantly dissecting runway trends, and when she’s not writing or studying, she’s hunting for the perfect vintage skirt, sipping on an iced matcha, or curating the ultimate Pinterest-worthy wardrobe.

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