It can feel that way. Like for something to come out "right" the first time, you'd need to transfer the picture in your mind directly into someone else's.
That would make delegation easier, but it's not what's needed, and thank goodness, because Vulcan mind melds aren't actually possible.
Successful delegation isn't about better instructions. It's about the mindset before delegation. Your mindset.
Are you okay with mistakes? Not theoretically, but in practice, in real time and real circumstances. If the internal answer is no, you'll communicate that immediately through tone, reaction, and how quickly you jump in. People pick up on it fast.
Their mindset. Are they resilient enough to keep going after a mistake? Do they have the confidence to take ownership instead of playing it safe? Do they understand which parts must be done your way and which parts allow for autonomy?
Delegation feels frustrating when either mindset is off.
The core of delegation isn't letting go. It's developing the person you're handing the work to.
Where's your mindset?