I had a similar struggle...I sat down a few times at $25 NL and played too scared (in small pots fortunately) and ended up folding out the best (only slightly) hand a few times on bluffable boards.
But I started to get used to the denominations, and the playstyles.

The big difference-maker for me was moving that $500 BR to Party, Empire, etc. and having those quick-to-clear bonuses covering my ass for the move up.
Now I'm totally used to the bet amounts, etc. at $25 NL - so I'm basically switching back and forth between $25 NL and $10 NL - if I lose 1 1/2 to 2 buyins at $25 NL, I step back for a few days and rebuild, make sure I'm playing like I should.
I wouldn't recommend that for everyone of course, but it consoles the bankroll baby in me.