ambition by proxy

"Ambition by proxy" refers to a situation where someone delegates ambitious tasks, projects, or goals to another person without actively participating or contributing to the effort themselves. This term implies that the person is seeking to achieve success or recognition vicariously through the efforts of others, rather than taking on the challenges directly.

When my boss constantly assigns me high-profile projects but never offers any support or guidance, it feels like he's practicing ambition by proxy, wanting the glory without putting in the work.

You know when your wife comes up with ideas for projects for you to do but doesn't plan on helping at all? That's ambition by proxy.