If you wish a thing done, go; if not, send.

Understand the thought

Meaning in plain English

If a task matters to you, direct involvement can help ensure that its requirements are understood. The proverb exaggerates the weakness of sending someone else; capable delegation can work when responsibility, information and authority are clear.

What the words are saying

The contrast between going and sending stresses the difference between attending to a task personally and assuming that a message alone will secure the result. A useful reading asks whether the person sent knows what is needed and can resolve the questions that arise. Direct involvement may be appropriate when only the sender has the necessary information or authority. It need not mean doing every task oneself. A well-briefed person may perform the work better than the person who requested it. The proverb challenges careless transfer of responsibility, while its absolute wording should not become a reason to distrust colleagues or refuse sensible delegation.

Everyday example

A designer attends the first fitting of a display panel because several design choices are still unresolved, then gives the installer clear instructions for the remaining panels.

When to use it

Use it when a task is being passed on without the information or responsibility needed to complete it.

Agent-assisted editorial interpretation. This explains the words; it does not by itself verify their author or earliest origin.