One of the most compelling and useful images is the one Ronald Heifetz uses in Leadership without Easy Answers, that of the leader withdrawing temporarily from engagement (at least mentally) and going for a space up to the balcony to observe his or her interactions on the dance floor below.
The art of leading is nearly entirely built on a yin/yang, ebb/flow, engagement/retreat rhythm. Leaders must stay connected, yet find a way to detach enough to reflect honestly and calmly on what they are doing and why. Nearly all of the pitfalls of practicing leadership appear when leaders become overextended, too identified with the process, or dangerously detached from the process that they ostensibly lead.
Share here the kinds of things you have learned about the usefulness of going to the balcony. What form does it take? Quiet centering? Personal retreats? Periodic stock-taking? How do you remain connected with yourself and others on the dance floor (which is different from working during "vacation" or cheating by sneaking work on days off!