Take your time and don't rush it. If you get too obsessed with skill meters and maxing out every moment you will lose the magic of just letting things happen. The best gameplay I've had is when I've let things happen organically, meeting new Sims or finding my Sim in unexpected situations.
There's also so much content that doesn't meet the eye, so let yourself explore your surroundings and you'll be surprised of what you can find.
(Also, after for playing for YEARS I was yesterday years old when I learnt you could hold the alt-button in build mode. If you want to go into building, there are some seriously useful features especially in build mode that isn't apparent.)
EA Staff
