Chris, you offer powerful advice. It is one of the best ways to "survive the job." (I don't even like to phrase it that way, but to be accurate...) Knowing you are maintaining your personal constitution, i.e. integrity to me, creates an excellent foundation, and models strength to your constituents.

My additional advice to middle managers and other employees who are in challenging, often thankless positions is to make sure your life is balanced. Shore up your relationships, hobbies, recreation, and/or a spiritual practice so that work doesn't completely deplete you.