Depending on you MB and BIOS, there is often a "CPU Tweaker" section (advanced mode). In the basic mode for BIOS there is often a set configuration of "Energy Efficient, Normal, and High Performance" which are three set values. However, I will say that without some extreme cooling, the CPU will begin to throw faults (verify this with LatencyMon if you go this route). The overall throughput was actually slower using any level of "extreme" overclocking for me. The effective CPU throughput is shown in LatencyMon (or you can benchmark it using PassMarks Benchmark program). I have always used a normal mode, but overclocked RAM appropriately, and the only software that will peg the CPU is video rendering and encryption-based software.
Overall, David's comment above is the recommended route (finding/freezing offenders). I have never had issues with CPU limits, but also tend to be light-handed with VST/VSTis as well. If you have not checked the system, LatencyMon is a good start, as you may have other programs in the background affecting you.
Quick Edit: If using project templates to "cover everything" you may want to choose a more tactical approach with track templates for project construction.