Nothing is impossible for the person who doesn’t have to do it himself.

The line circulated as a humorous jab at people—often managers or commentators—who confidently promise big results when they won’t be the ones doing the work. The earliest appearances in 1954 were printed as standalone filler items in magazines/newspapers without naming a source.

It mocks armchair confidence: tasks seem easy when you can delegate the effort and risk to someone else. The joke highlights the gap between making commitments and bearing the burden of execution.

Nothing is impossible to the chap who doesn’t have to do it himself.

Nothing is impossible to the fellow who doesn’t have to do it himself.

Nothing is impossible to the man who doesn’t have to do it himself.