I suggest the ability to raise S.P.E.C.I.A.L. stats with time-intensive ingame activities.This way, for example, to improve ST, one can start carrying boxes or mining. With time (after 1000 pieces of ore or boxes), the ST will increase by 1, maximal by 2 to prevent the endless grind for stats.And so on.
I didn't mention Guardians just because they represent no real force in my opinion.
Make it botproof then, which leaves us with boxlifting.
trust me, can be done with macro.
Its another topic which shows that players would like to naturaly develop their character further and its another voice which proves that One Alt Crusade is the right way of changes which should be implemented.