Not only did online shopping make it much easier to buy things for ourselves (whether we needed them or not), but also it was much easier to buy things for other people. And that influx of stuff has also helped illuminate the very short life cycle of "thing I covet" to "dust collector" to "trash." Why would I spend money on a gift that's just going to end up in a landfill?
I get the most joy during the holiday season seeing other folks open the sentimental gifts I got them (rather than the other way around). Gift-giving is my love language. I find great joy in searching for the perfect items, and hoping the recipient loves their gift. However, somewhere between the buying and the opening, there is one job that isn't my favorite: the wrapping.