Daymaking: Creating a culture of wellness in the workplace

Many of us will spend thirty-three percent of our lives on the job. Meaning, the work that we do, and the people we do it with, can powerfully impact our mental wellbeing. That’s why creating a culture of wellness in the workplace is so important to me. I recognize that when we at JUUT engage in Daymaking and uplift the people in our spaces, that kindness not only brings joy to our work-lives—but also ripples out into the interactions we have with our family, friends, and community.

But, outside of our spaces, the daily grind is leaving many feeling depleted.

Too many lack a workplace culture of care and belonging

Just last week, in fact, our Wayzata hair colorist Heather shared that her guests often open up about feeling underappreciated and unfulfilled at work.

What’s at the root of this feeling—and what can you do about it?

• We’re missing real connection. Daymaking creates meaningful moments in everyday life. A smile, a compliment, a kind word, it bridges the distance between people and restores a sense of community.
• We’re missing being seen for who we are. Most people go through their day unnoticed. Daymaking says, “I see you. I value you.” That’s powerful. It brings dignity to the ordinary.
• We’re missing purpose. Many people feel stuck, wondering if what they do matters. But when you make someone’s day, intentionally, you realize: I made a difference. That spark of purpose can reignite your whole life.
• We’re missing kindness. Cynicism and judgment are loud these days. Daymaking offers an antidote: gentle, quiet kindness that expects nothing in return. It restores our faith in each other.

By embracing the spirit of Daymaking, you can help nurture meaningful cultural transformation in the workplace.

Helping people feel valued: Workplace wellness ideas

We uplift our artists in intentional, heartfelt ways that reflect the soul of Daymaking itself. Why? Because when they feel seen, supported, and inspired, they have more to give, more to share, and more light to shine.

We’ve sustained this thriving culture of Daymaking at JUUT, and our approach is one you can bring to your own workplace.

How?

• Recognition beyond results. We don’t just celebrate the outcomes, like service dollars or rebooking rates, but the spirit an artist brings to the salon. A quiet act of kindness, a moment of deep listening with a guest, or uplifting a teammate behind the scenes—it all gets noticed and acknowledged.
• Spaces to refuel, not just perform. From mindfulness breaks to access to coaching, education, and creative inspiration, we prioritize the well-being of our artists. This isn’t extra—it’s essential. A nurtured artist becomes a nurturing artist.
• A culture of authenticity. You don’t have to fit a mold to succeed. Our artists are celebrated for their individuality, their energy, their vibe. That freedom to be fully yourself is what creates such a rich and welcoming environment for our guests and teammates alike.
• Leadership that listens. From salon directors to support staff, our leadership is deeply committed to staying connected to artists’ voices. We celebrate wins, remove roadblocks, and offer support that feels personal, not performative.
• Daymaker days, daily. Whether it’s surprise treats, unexpected thank you’s, or simply being told, “I see how much you care,” Daymaking isn’t just for clients. We live it behind the chair, too, modeling the belief that kindness begins within our workplace culture itself.

How Daymaking shows up in our everyday work-lives

We all have the power to transform someone’s day; the secret lies in being present and intentional.

What do these simple acts of kindness look like at JUUT?

• Genuine greetings. A warm smile and eye contact at the front desk can make a nervous first-time guest feel instantly safe and welcome.
• A little extra at the shampoo bowl. A stylist slowing down to give a longer scalp massage or asking how someone’s day is going; these moments often become the highlight of a guest’s day.
• Kind words in the breakroom. Noticing when a teammate seems off and checking in with a “You good?” or “I see you today,” reminds them they’re not alone.
• Thank you notes or sticky notes. A handwritten note left for a teammate or guest can be a quiet but powerful reminder: You matter here.
• Helping without being asked. Folding someone else’s towels, grabbing lunch for a busy stylist, or staying late to clean a treatment room—these invisible acts of kindness shape our culture.

You can easily evolve these wellness ideas to match your workplace; they only require that you’re open to the emotional needs of those around you.

The impact can be profound.

Why does Daymaking matter so much?

Because it can’t be forced.

It grows in soil that’s nurtured, where people feel cared for, trusted, and empowered. When someone is uplifted, they naturally uplift others. Their kindness becomes contagious. Their joy becomes magnetic. And that’s what keeps JUUT not just successful, but meaningful.

This culture of support is more than a strategy. It’s the heartbeat of a movement—and it’s one that I invite you to join.

David Wagner
Founder/Daymaker
JUUT Salonspas

This is the third post in David’s three-part Daymaking series. We invite you find inspiration in his first two pieces:

• Daymaking Can Change Someone’s World (and Yours)
• Daymaking: The Uplifting Gift We Also Give Ourselves