Let’s face it—November is that weird in-between month where the days get shorter, the weather gets colder, and suddenly you’re stuck in a rut. You’ve probably binged half of Netflix by now and, honestly, scrolling Instagram isn’t going to help. So, what do you do? It’s time to shake things up with some new hobbies that are fun, creative, and way more interesting than the usual stuff people suggest. Let’s get into it!
We’ve all got stuff lying around the house that we don’t really use anymore—clothes, old jars, furniture, you name it. Instead of tossing it out, upcycle it! Get creative, turn that old dresser into something Pinterest-worthy, or take a tired old jacket and give it new life. The best part? You’ll feel super accomplished when you turn your “trash” into treasure, and it’s way cheaper than buying new stuff.
2. Hand-Lettering: Make Your Words Look Fancy for Fun
If you’re the type who loves aesthetic planners or pretty notebooks, hand-lettering is your new best friend. It’s not just calligraphy—it’s like making your words look fancy and creative, without needing a ton of skill. You’ll feel super artsy while you’re at it, and it’s a great way to personalize your planner or DIY greeting cards. Plus, it’s ridiculously calming.
3. Birdwatching: Yes, It’s Cooler Than You Think
Okay, I know what you’re thinking—birdwatching? Really? But hear me out. Once you start, it’s weirdly addictive. November is prime migration season, so you’ll actually see some cool species flying through. It’s also a chance to get outside and slow down for once. Trust me, spending time in nature (without your phone in your face) is one of the best things you can do for your mental health right now.
4. DIY Candle Making: Because Your House Deserves to Smell Better
As the days get shorter and colder, cozy vibes are a must. And what’s cozier than a candle you made yourself? Candle making is surprisingly easy, and you get to create custom scents that suit your mood (or make your place smell amazing). Plus, you can gift them for the holidays—bonus points for being thoughtful and crafty.
5. Journaling for Mindfulness: Clear Your Head, One Word at a Time
Journaling sounds cliché, but here’s the twist: mindful journaling. It’s not about keeping a diary or writing pages of nonsense—it’s about getting your thoughts out of your head and onto paper so you can actually breathe. November’s the perfect time to slow down, reflect, and make sense of the chaos in your mind. And if you’re not sure where to start, grab my Journal Notion Template to make it easier.
6. Learn a New Instrument (But Pick Something Easy)
Let’s be honest—nobody has the time (or patience) to learn the violin in November. But picking up a simple instrument like the ukulele or kalimba? Now that’s doable. Both are super easy to learn, and you’ll feel like a total pro after a few sessions. Plus, it’s a great way to unwind that isn’t staring at a screen.
7. Wild Food Foraging: Get Fancy with Your Cooking
If you’re into cooking (or even if you’re not), wild food foraging is a hobby that’ll spice up your meals in ways you never expected. November’s a great time to find wild mushrooms, herbs, or other edible plants in nature. Obviously, do your research so you don’t accidentally eat something questionable, but once you know what to look for, it’s like turning your next meal into a mini adventure.
November doesn’t have to be a boring, in-between month. These hobbies are designed to shake things up, help you unwind, and maybe even discover something you didn’t know you’d enjoy. Whether you’re upcycling old junk, playing a new instrument, or birdwatching (yes, seriously), there’s something on this list that’ll keep you busy and inspired. So get out there and try something new—you’ve got nothing to lose.
