I'd like to toss out there that learning, itself, is a skill. I honestly grew up with an abnormally simplistic view of schooling because it was always easy for me. I didn't realize until I was much older that I was blessed with parents that encouraged me to learn at all times until eventually it was just something I enjoyed doing.
I love learning new things because it feels invigorating in ways similar to what you describe. I feel like "putting in the work" would feel less like a chore for most if they understood that you have to learn how to learn before you can give yourself a fair shake at learning anything else.
!1UP