Great post, Mary!

 I could add one more thing from my experience - be a support to your boss. By being a sounding board and a person who can be of counsel to them - yes even as a subordinate - you can gain a lot of ground in common understanding which can help you know the challenges of their role as well as establish yourself as a solid leader in the organization.

It's all about taking over the reigns, but working hard to establish solid relationships in the process.