For me officiating is similar to the feelings I used to get when I rock climbed. Specifically when I would climb Devils Tower here in Wyoming. (Think 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind')
Drivng up to the Tower I would get a pit in my stomach as I am deathly afraid of heights. At the base of the Tower on some days I would physically get sick and need to puke I was so nervous.
But once I sunk my hand into a crack and stepped up off the horizontal onto the vert, my attention was SOLELY focused on the task at hand, and off of my fear of heights.
One afternoon I did slip and took a 40' whipper! LOL
This is my 2nd year officiating and I'm always pouring over the 'Officials Handbook', rule book and case plays before the game and in the car on the way to the game. But during the game, I'm focused and believe I do a good job.
I'm nervous and excited before every game just like I was when I played Varsity ball. Only thing is I don't puke before a game!
Best wishes to you for a long officiating career!
WM