Pretending it comes naturally makes hard work look like a flaw. Let people see you sweat.
REFLECTION
REFLECTION
Hiding the effort flatters you briefly and quietly damages everyone watching. When only the finished thing is visible, other people conclude they must be the only ones who found it hard, and a lot of quitting starts right there. It traps you too, because now the illusion needs maintaining. Talent that arrived easily is mostly a story told after the fact.
Mention the hours the next time somebody compliments a result of yours. Say how many takes, how many drafts, how long you spent getting it wrong. It costs nothing and it gives the next person permission to struggle where others can see.
What skill do you let people think came easily to you?
Free, with nothing to buy inside it.