Online shopping is both a gift and a curse: a gift because you have the store's merchandise at the tip of your fingers, yet a curse because it may all be so very tempting to buy whatever you fall in love with.

Whenever I get a gift card for a birthday or holiday, I immediately remind myself of all the joys of online shopping. I always save gift cards for that rainy day when you're feeling glum because sometimes a little shopping is all we need as a pick-me-up.

1. The whole store is at your fingertips

The beauty of online shopping is that everything is right in front of you. Wanna look for jeans? You don't have to shuffle through the nice, neatly folded jeans on the table that the employees just refolded, you can just simply click a size and add to cart.

2. No need to go out in bad weather

It's winter, it's cold, and it's snowy. Why go out in the cold when you can drink hot chocolate in your PJs and just order online?

3. You don't have to leave your pet

Why leave your pet by themselves when you can be with them AND get your shopping done?

4. The excitement of waiting for a package

Whenever I order something, there is so much anticipation and excitement for me to actually get it in the mail. It's a present to yourself from yourself!!!!

5. Sales!

Sometimes the online store has better sales than the store... and nothing beats a good sale!

6. Sometimes the online store has more options

From working in retail, I can tell you that there is always an occasion where someone comes in asking for something, but it is "online only." A true disappointment when you made the trip to the mall already and you are wandering the store aimlessly looking for it.

7. Procrastination

Unfortunately, I bought two outfits from American Eagle and some new makeup from Sephora when I was trying to focus on my studies. I guess you can say it's a good stress relief.

So yes, online shopping is a BLAST. But every now and then, sometimes all we need to do is physically go to the mall, window shop, and try ridiculous things on just for fun. The joys of shopping are endless.