19 Things To Do In November To Improve Your Mood + Home

November is one of those in-between months that tends to fly under the radar, but it’s actually the perfect time to hit the reset button before the holiday whirlwind kicks in. The days are getting shorter, the air is crisp, and it feels like a transition into something new.

Instead of letting the November blues sneak up on you, why not use this month as an opportunity to focus on yourself and your home?

Whether it’s making small improvements to boost your mood or prepping your space for winter (and even for the spring home-selling season), November is prime time to get ahead. Think of it as a month dedicated to self-care, productivity, and setting yourself up for an easier, more relaxed holiday season.

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Especially if you’re thinking about selling your home in the spring, starting improvements in November gives you a real head start. By tackling home projects before winter sets in, you can ensure everything is in tip-top shape by the time the market heats up in the spring.

November Reset: Simple Ways to Improve Your Life and Home This Month

A couple of years ago, I found myself feeling a bit overwhelmed as the colder months rolled in. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the upcoming holidays, and for me, that often meant my self-care and home upkeep went straight to the back burner.

By the time December arrived, I was usually burnt out, stressed, and scrambling to get everything done. Not exactly the picture-perfect holiday vibe I was aiming for. On top of that, the shorter days and colder weather would start to take a toll on my mood, and if I’m being honest, I was constantly battling the November blues.

That’s when I decided to change things up. Instead of waiting for the holidays to hit before addressing everything, I decided to make November my “prep month.” I started focusing on self-improvement during this time—small things that really made a difference.

These small actions helped me avoid the seasonal slump and feel more energized as I headed into the holiday season. By the time Thanksgiving came around, I was feeling better about myself, more balanced, and definitely less overwhelmed.

But it wasn’t just about personal self-improvement. I also realized that November is the perfect time to focus on home improvement. Instead of waiting until spring to start freshening things up, I took the time in November to declutter, reorganize, and make small updates around the house.

It made a huge difference in my environment and gave me a sense of accomplishment. Plus, I noticed that starting home projects early allowed me to relax a bit more when the holidays hit. I wasn’t scrambling to clean up or fix things last minute when guests came over.

20 Productive and Fun Things To Do In November

As I mentioned, November is a bit of a hidden gem when it comes to cozy activities, new opportunities, and prepping for the end of the year. As the days get shorter and a little colder, it’s the perfect month to try something new, slow down, and savor the season.

Whether you’re getting ready for the holidays or just want to make the most of this transitional time, here are some unique ideas for productive things to do in November, before the Holiday chaos!

1. Host a Friendsgiving

November is all about gathering with loved ones, and Friendsgiving is the perfect way to do that with your chosen family. Whether it’s a full-on feast or a casual potluck, it’s all about spending time with your favorite people without the stress of a formal Thanksgiving.

Assign dishes, bring out some board games, and enjoy a relaxed, fun evening. It’s a great way to kick off the holiday season and celebrate gratitude with the people who matter most to you.

Or if you will be a guest attending a Friendsgiving party (or any dinner party this season) make sure you bring a classy gift for the host/hostess!

2. Start Holiday Planning and Holiday Shopping Early

If you’re someone who gets stressed out by holiday shopping, November is the time to get ahead. Start making lists, setting budgets, and even purchasing a few gifts so you’re not scrambling in December.

Start adding your must-haves to the cart, and buy them when they go on sale for Black Friday at the end of November!

Make a List of Things You Want to Buy During Black Friday

Black Friday can be overwhelming if you don’t have a plan, so November is the perfect time to get organized. Start by making a list of the things you actually want or need to buy during the sales.

Whether it’s electronics, home essentials, or gifts for the holidays, having a list helps you stay focused and avoid impulse buys. Research ahead of time to see which stores offer the best deals, and keep an eye out for early Black Friday sales, which often start in mid-November. With a plan in place, you’ll be ready to shop smart and save big when the day arrives.

You’ll thank yourself later when you’re calmly sipping cocoa instead of rushing to buy last-minute presents.

3. Prep Your Home for Winter

November is the perfect time to winterize your home before the really cold weather hits. Check your windows for drafts, clean your chimney, and swap out lighter bedding for cozy flannel sheets and heavier blankets.

You might even want to add some seasonal decor like wreaths, fairy lights, or winter-scented candles to set the mood. Getting your home prepped for winter ensures you’ll stay warm and comfortable all season long.

4. Get Outdoors and Enjoy the Last of the Fall Colors

While October is often the peak of Fall foliage, many areas still have beautiful colors lingering into November. Take advantage of this time before winter fully sets in by getting outdoors.

Whether it’s a long walk through your neighborhood or a hike in a nearby park, spending time in nature is a great way to de-stress before the holiday rush begins. Plus, the crisp November air makes it the perfect time for an outdoor adventure.

5. Volunteer at a Local Shelter or Food Bank

November is a month centered on gratitude, and what better way to express that than by giving back? Volunteering at a local shelter, food bank, or community organization is a meaningful way to spend your time this month.

Many places are especially busy as the holidays approach, so your help will be appreciated. Whether it’s serving meals, sorting donations, or offering your time in any way you can, volunteering in November can make a huge impact on those who need it.

6. Add Seasonal Decor for a Cozy, Chic Home

November is the perfect time to start adding subtle seasonal decor to your home before diving into full holiday mode in December. Think cozy textures like chunky blankets, velvet pillows, and soft rugs.

Swap out your everyday candles for ones with warm, seasonal scents like cinnamon, pine, or vanilla. You can also bring in natural elements like wreaths, pinecones, or dried flowers for a chic but festive touch. This way, your home will feel inviting and seasonal without overwhelming your space before the holiday decorations take over.

Related: Classy Christmas Decor To Make Your Home Lok Stunning This Holiday.

7. Bake Seasonal Pies

Pumpkin pie gets all the attention in October, but November is the perfect time to explore other seasonal flavors. Try your hand at making apple pie, pecan pie, or even a savory pie like chicken pot pie.

It’s the ultimate comfort food, and you can share your creations with friends, family, or simply enjoy them yourself. Plus, practicing your pie-making skills in November will leave you prepared to impress at Thanksgiving dinner.

8. Go Ice Skating at an Outdoor Rink

Depending on where you live, November is the start of ice skating season. Check out local outdoor rinks for a fun activity that gets you moving while enjoying the crisp November air.

Ice skating is a great way to embrace the winter season early, and it’s a fun activity whether you go solo, with friends, or bring the whole family. Don’t forget to warm up afterward with a cup of hot chocolate!

9. Start a Gratitude Practice

As Thanksgiving approaches, November is the perfect month to start a gratitude practice. Each day, take a few minutes to write down or reflect on something you’re thankful for. It’s a simple habit, but it can have a big impact on your mindset as you shift your focus to what’s going right in your life.

By the end of the month, you’ll have a collection of positive thoughts to look back on, which can be especially grounding during the busy holiday season.

10. DIY Holiday Decorations

Get a head start on holiday decor by making your own decorations in November. From homemade wreaths to simple garlands, there are endless DIY projects you can create with a few supplies.

Not only does this give you a fun activity to do on a chilly November day, but it also gives your home a personal, festive touch without the high price tag of store-bought decor. Plus, crafting can be a relaxing way to unwind and get into the holiday spirit without feeling rushed.

11. Take a Weekend Road Trip

Before winter fully takes over, plan a weekend road trip in November to explore somewhere new. Whether you drive to a nearby city, explore the countryside, or visit a new hiking spot, a quick getaway is a great way to recharge before the holidays.

Pack your Stanley with coffee, turn on your favorite playlist, and hit the road for some Fall adventure. It’s a fun way to change up your routine and make the most of the last days of Fall.

12. Attend a Local Holiday Market

November is often when local holiday markets start popping up, offering handmade gifts, seasonal treats, and festive activities. Attending one is a great way to get into the holiday spirit without the overwhelming crowds of December shopping.

You’ll find unique, one-of-a-kind items for your holiday gift list and get to support small businesses at the same time. Many markets also offer delicious food and drinks, so it’s a fun outing whether you’re buying gifts or just browsing.

13. Plan Your Year-End Reflection

November is a great time to start reflecting on the year before the hustle and bustle of December takes over. Set aside some time to think about your accomplishments, challenges, and goals from the past year.

Use this reflection to set new intentions for the final weeks of the year or to start planning for the year ahead. Whether you do this through journaling or simply in quiet thought, taking time to reflect in November helps you enter the holiday season with clarity and focus.

14. Start a New Skincare Routine for the Cooler Months

November is the perfect time to switch up your skincare routine and prepare your skin for the colder weather ahead. With the drop in temperature, your skin needs extra moisture and protection.

Add a hydrating serum, a richer moisturizer, and maybe even a soothing face mask into your weekly routine. This is also a great time to focus on self-care with treatments like facial massages or using a jade roller to help boost circulation and achieve that glowing, fresh look. By giving your skin the attention it deserves now, you’ll look and feel radiant all winter long.

15. Refresh Your Wardrobe for Fall and Winter

If you want to embrace your glow-up, November is a great time to refresh your wardrobe. Start by going through your closet and packing away your summer clothes, then take stock of what you already have for fall and winter.

Treat yourself to a few key pieces, like a warm, stylish coat, cozy sweaters, or chic boots that will keep you comfortable and fashionable throughout the season.

A wardrobe refresh doesn’t have to be a total overhaul—focus on adding a few high-quality, versatile pieces that make you feel confident and ready to tackle the colder months in style.

16. Deep Clean and Declutter Your Space

November is the perfect time for a deep clean before the holiday season kicks in. Give your home a refresh by decluttering spaces like your closets, kitchen, and living areas.

Tackle the areas you tend to overlook, like under the furniture, inside cabinets, and even behind appliances. With a clean and decluttered space, you’ll feel more organized and ready to decorate for the holidays. Not only will this make your home look great, but it’ll also create a sense of calm and relaxation as you enter the busiest time of the year.

17. Have a Cozy Reading Weekend

With the weather cooling down, November is a great month to hibernate indoors with a good book (or several). Create a cozy reading nook, grab a blanket, and settle in for a weekend of uninterrupted reading.

Whether you’re into fiction, self-improvement, or diving into a new series, there’s something so satisfying about dedicating time to get lost in a great story. You can even pair your reading session with a warm drink like hot cocoa or mulled cider for the ultimate cozy vibe.

18. Rearrange Your Furniture for a Fresh Look

Sometimes the simplest way to make your home feel fresh is by rearranging the furniture.

In November, as you start spending more time indoors, experiment with different layouts to create a cozy, functional space. Move your seating around to encourage conversation, or shift your furniture to create a more open, inviting atmosphere.

This small change can make a big impact on the feel of your home, and it’s a budget-friendly way to refresh your space without buying anything new. Plus, rearranging your space can help you see your home in a new light, making it feel brand new for the season ahead.

Vibration-Raising Things To Do In November To Improve Your Life – Conclusion

November might not get the same hype as December or October, but it’s quietly one of the best months for making positive changes. By focusing on self-improvement now, you’ll feel more balanced and ready to tackle whatever the holidays throw your way.

But when it comes to home improvements, November is the sweet spot. You’ll be able to enjoy a cozier, more organized space for the rest of the year, and if selling your home is on the horizon, starting early gives you a serious leg up.

Simple updates like repainting, replacing old fixtures, or improving your home’s curb appeal during the fall months can make a big difference when it’s time to list your home. Plus, by the time the holidays roll around, your house is already looking fresh and ready to impress—whether it’s for guests or potential buyers in the new year.

Focusing on self-improvement and home improvement in November has become a tradition for me. It’s like giving myself—and my home—a boost before the craziness of the holidays and winter fully takes over.

Not only does it help me avoid seasonal depression and stay positive, but it also ensures that my space is cozy, organized, and ready for whatever comes next.

Personally, whether I’m prepping for holiday parties or gearing up to sell in the spring, starting in November makes the entire season smoother, more enjoyable, and a whole lot less stressful.Use November as your month to refresh, reset, and prep—so when the busy season hits, you’ll be calm, confident, and ready for anything.

Read this next: Things to do in December.