My experience n clipless pedals has been good, but so far only went 100 miles or so

One thing I find that is difficult is balancing on the cycling shoe. Because the shoe is so stiff, I find that when I unclip and stop a light or something, I feel like I have to stretch my foot like crazy just to get it to touch the pavement...then it doesn't feel like much traction b/c you're not on the balls of your feet as if you were wearing sneakers. Occasionally I've slipped and pulled muscles in my calves--bad, too! One time the bottom of my jacket became caught on the nose of my saddle when I tried to hop off to stable myself. I was a mess! Any suggestions??? (and ps--my saddle is at a great height, wouldn't want to futz with it).