I've read the following sentences from a book:
I wanted it so bad, I’d throw myself into practicing but somehow never got good —while other kids who weren’t putting in nearly the same amount of dedicated time picked up the skills without seeming to sweat the details. Were they just … naturals? Did they have private teachers? Secret handshakes?
Does this phrase have a literal meaning? I've tried to think that way, but it doesn't seem to make sense in this context.
I'd appreciate your help.