This article is an important read: http://nautil.us/issue/35/boundaries/not-all-practice-makes-perfect
I can often be heard saying "practice makes perfect", or "it's just practice" when people compliment me on Odissi or my yoga practice. I feel like it's important to get across that it is no 'natural' or innate talent; I have worked hard at these things for years, and if you practice as well there is no reason you can't also do these things. The meritocratic nature of developing skills is something I'm a big advocate of.
But actually perhaps I'm not giving the full story of my development and experience. Because practice is not just repeating the same thing over and over again expecting that it will get better. There is definitely something a bit deeper you have to pull out. There is that inner drive to constantly improve, and understanding the smaller steps you have to break down and through along the way to ensure you get there.
If you are practising and not improving, it is not a case of 'I just can't do it'; it is a case of taking the time to understand exactly where your barrier is. Exactly what element are you stuck at, and exploring different ways to get around the barrier. That depth of understanding of yourself and your craft will take you deep and true.
The article also makes a valuable point about feedback. We need feedback to identify where we are falling short. If we can't see why we are not succeeding, no doubt someone else who has been there before us can.
Purposeful practice
Push beyond your comfort zone
Find ways around barriers
Use feedback
The impossible is just the next breakthrough.