Can’t stand football? Wouldn’t dream of tuning into this year’s World Cup in Qatar? Here’s a list of four things you can do instead.

If you’d rather watch paint dry than the World Cup, then we’ve got you covered. Here’s a guide to tuning out when the tournament is on.

Blitz your Christmas shopping

This is your chance to be one of those smug people who has all their Christmas shopping sorted weeks before 25 December. The football kicks off on 20 November, with the first two rounds of matches taking place at 10am, 1pm, 4pm and 7pm (UK time). So it’s a safe bet that while millions of British football fans are glued to their TV screens, the shops will be crowd-free. Use this time wisely, and you’ll avoid last-minute present-buying panic.

Start writing a bestseller

November is National Novel Writing Month, so why not get started on penning a thrilling page-turner? The organisers behind National Novel Writing Month are urging budding authors to write a 50,000-word first draft this month. Sign up for the challenge through the official website, and you’ll receive writing tips and encouragement from top authors.

Binge-watch a TV series

As 21 November is World Television Day, it’d be rude not to settle into a great series. Why not catch up with a classic you’ve never seen, such as The Wire, Breaking Bad or Stranger Things? Alternatively, dive into something new. Check out the creepy horror series The Devil’s Hour or the historical action-drama SAS Rogue Heroes. Meanwhile, crime fans might enjoy Ridley, a detective show starring Adrian Dunbar (Jesus, Mary and Joseph! It’s the guy from Line of Duty).

Nail your DIY

We’re betting that, like most people, you have a long list of DIY jobs that you just never get around to doing. Why not seize this opportunity to finally do those niggly little jobs like giving tired walls a fresh lick of paint or fixing creaky cupboard doors. November is also a good time to get busy in the garden by pruning back bushes or planting bulbs.

From all of us here at myhouse Agents, thanks for reading. If you’re making alternative plans for the World Cup, get in touch with us on social media and let us know what they are.