The acquisition of any skill, whether cognitive, motor, or a combination of both, is a complex process deeply rooted in the principles of neuroplasticity, synaptic plasticity, and the development of procedural memory. Despite the popular notion that individuals can “rise to the occasion” and perform exceptionally under stress without prior practice, scientific evidence strongly suggests otherwise. We explore the mechanisms that underpin skill learning, emphasizing the essential role of repetition and debunking the myth that spontaneous competence can emerge in the absence of practice.