Everything Is Like Riding a Bicycle.

By which I mean, intuitively at least, does it not seem to you that given enough time, effort (or focus), and motivation, it is quite possible to reach that point of no return, past which an activity, endeavor, or pursuit becomes natural, and hence, though not effortless, much less onerous and much more rewarding? That magic moment like snapping your fingers, after which the flow goes on and on.

Think of academic pursuits, for instance. As an undergraduate, research seems impossibly difficult, esoteric, or downright impenetrable. But with exposure and conscientious practice, it becomes less and less impossible, and more and more fulfilling. 

Or think of creative endeavors. A novice's scribblings would almost certainly not qualify as great work, but with the necessary amount of perseverance and perhaps a certain amount of conviction, the novice will proceed to do creative work of note.

You may protest, "But, physical and other kinds of restrictions exist. There is such a thing as inborn talent, and thus there also is the lack of talent. Exceptional people and achievements are called exceptional for a reason," and, of course, you would be remiss in not noting, "Aren't you just being optimistically deluded about your own capabilities and potential?"

To which I would reply, why, yes, indeed, in a sense, I am just drastically, drastically overestimating myself. Won't you agree that focusing on possibility instead of impossibility is the healthier attitude? Isn't optimism more useful than pessimism, in this sense? 

However, elaborating a little further, taking such an outlook does not equate to being completely naïve. Instead, it just consists of being resilient and confident in oneself in the face of difficult or unfamiliar situations, while at the same time still retaining a good measure of skepticism.

That is, perhaps I should have just let this quote speak for itself:

I’m a pessimist because of intelligence, but an optimist because of will.

- Antonio Gramsci

(Of course, personally, I have quite a ways to go, but it must be hoped that eventually I will get there!)