above it all

Having too much pride, dignity, moral superiority, etc., to participate or engage in some activity. Helping with some of the grunt work alongside your employees from time to time is a great way to earn their respect. A manager who acts above it all is going to come across as a lot less relatable and trustworthy. The whole group likes to gossip and snipe, but I've always tried to remain above it all. I'm surprised that girl has any friends at all—she's hardly ever at school, and, when she is, she acts like she's above it all.