It's more difficult to start with one Sim than several. Even if you do not intend on keeping all of them, start with as many as possible and start them working. You can kill them off later when your career stabilizes and you have the necessary equipment to get motives up quickly and work on skills. It is generally a good idea to keep at least two Sims so that they can keep each other's Social Motives up.
For more Tips & Tricks for playing The Sims, including Time Management, building Skills, and getting more money, click here.