Everyone uses alts, alt for this, alt for that ...

Why not make it possible run all one's chars at the same time ? Instead of having to log out, or switch char, it would be more convenient to transfer the control over a char ingame, like, there could be a menu on the UI where people could choose witch char to currently control.
So if you have an alt planting a field, you could pop to the guy in the mine to mine another part of the cave wall.
Bottom line is that people would do more easily what they are already doing and their villages will look more lively with the person running their whole, or part of their "family" at the same time.
plus it would be increasing the chances for more drama due to unattended hearthlings !
