I agree with you that its tough. So many people with opinions and having to manage it all, my goodness it is a lot to deal with it.
I do find that if the communication is open and clear, things are already so much better! I see that in my own work that whenever the communication is muddled and unclear, it leaves me insecure and feeling left out (I've gotten so used to this now that it doesn't bother me anymore) yet the few times that the communication is crystal clear, it is actually a really good feeling.
I believe open and honest communication is THE way to go!