The Rebbe's guidance for shluchim — emissaries sent to strengthen Jewish life — and for every Jew as G-d's emissary:
Every Jew is a shliach. Every Jewish soul comes down to this world as an emissary of the King of Kings, and that is a great joy (IK 1726b). Every Jew is sent to spread Judaism, and an emissary is presumed to succeed (IK 6102); remembering that one is G-d's shliach brings boundless strength (IK 7943). Even in illness, one remains an emissary to spread light (IK 2353).
The shliach's role. A shliach is like a lamplighter, kindling the souls around him (IK 4562). Being chosen as a shliach brings great merit and responsibility — one must be a living example (IK 4586, 755), and the Rebbe's shluchim carry special powers and responsibilities (IK 960). Chassidim on shlichus must be both distinct and integrated in their surroundings (IK 4052), combining pleasantness with firmness on core Torah values (IK 6257). Shlichus should be taken on willingly, not under pressure (IK 804).
When it's hard. Challenges in shlichus are tests meant to elevate; steadfastness brings spiritual and material success (IK 998, 6031, 918). Don't draw negative conclusions from difficulties; focus on action (IK 5780, 7976). Progress comes step by step, so don't be discouraged (IK 6713). Even feeling isolated, financially or emotionally, one draws strength from the mission (IK 785). Serve with joy, and make decisions about shlichus from a sense of freedom rather than pressure (IK 7266). Trust in G-d even in hard times (IK 5865). Don't feel left out; one's merit in shlichus is shared (IK 10460).
Practical boundaries. Shlichus demands intense dedication, especially at first, but not at the expense of one's family (IK 6133). It needs practical boundaries, financial and personal (IK 6149), and communal work must not be mixed with private business (IK 7050). Spreading Judaism within one's own family has its own holiness (IK 10367).
Visiting shluchim and student shluchim. Prepare well for shluchim's visits, and make sure their inspiration leads to ongoing action afterwards (IK 3930, 4581, 4698, 8108, 8502). Only students who excel in diligence and conduct should be sent as shluchim (IK 9303). Support shluchim actively (IK 364, 9958).
See also: Jewish outreach – Opposition, setbacks and not seeing results; Emotional well-being – Loneliness.