I thought it was sad when the mother asked her daughter if what she bought was a need or a want. The girl had to earn the money for what she purchased, and her mother made it seem like she did something wrong for buying something she wanted. Sad for the daughter, it seems like it would take the enjoyment out of having accomplished her goal.

From my experience, the best way to simplify your life is a 2-part process.

First, get rid of the "stuff" that's holding you back from a simple life.. things
that you don't need.
Second, get organized so that you can go about your life in a simple way.

It's easy once you've made up your mind to do it.