My idea, simply put, is that the base attributes (strength, agility, perception, etc.), should be increased not only through FEPs, but through actions done by the player. This would in no way be a substitute for FEPs, but a gradual process that happens in the background of gameplay. It would give an extra layer of development to people's characters, and encourage specialization.
Examples include:
Strength- strength gain would depend on how often the player engaged in combat, lifted objects for a long period of time, or plowed land, dug up clay, etc.
Perception- this would increase the more often a player foraged, again, the gain would be gradual, but for people who depend on foraging for all food and curios, it would be noticeable.
Constitution- this attribute most closely relates to the idea of fitness in the game- constitution affects a player's max health, and decreases stamina drain while swimming. So, why shouldn't Constitution be raised with regular exercise? Travelling long distances on foot could raise this attribute over time.
The same concept applies for all the other attributes- players who craft lots of items would end up with a naturally higher dexterity, those who are always studying curios would end up with higher intelligence, and so on.
What do you think?