I play with aging off, so there is no need for me to rush anything, and pretty much any task in TS4 can be solved easily with a little patience. I never use cheats to achieve any goals like aspirations etc. After all I bought this game to play it, not to get it done as quickly as possible.
BUT...
I use a broad supporting cast of premades that I never play. Each of them has their own history, and like the Maxis premades I give them a few skill points and traits to define their character. Also relationships. Those neighbours who have hated each other's guts for years? I want to see them fight when I pass their homes.
