You should always take a close look at the Awards button at the bottom of the screen.

When you see a red ribbon, it means that you have not claimed the rewards for an objective you have completed!

Tap on this button and claim your reward. The awards will give you plenty of coins, water and even lasagna to help you progress!

If you are smart about which actions to perform first to quickly finish a pending Award you will progress much more quickly in the game!