Tell me I can learn Illustrator

I am trying to learn how to use Illustrator and Photoshop at a professional level (taking lessons from an expert, of course) and some days it feels hopeless. It is not an intuitive software at all, and my projects keep being halted by a lack of knowledge in basic things.

I know that the only way out is through, but I am sure other beginning designers have felt like I do. Does it get easier? Did you get the hang of it in the end?