I do not remember any such apprehension when I first shot (Cadets, Lee Enfield No 7 .22 cal, 1972).
Shooting was a more "normal" activity then, and most boys had pellet or BB guns. Too often, now, an ignorant press and many politicians see those who enjoy the use of firearms as anything but normal. They are wrong. Unfortunately, their attitudes and misconceptions have generated an apprehension of firearms across society in general.
Most people who try shooting enjoy it to varying degrees, but to many in the CF it is just another thing that has to be done from time-to-time.
A firearm is a very simple piece of precision machinery with few moving parts and even fewer controls to operate. Mastering care and handling to an acceptable degree is not difficult and you should become comfortable with that quite quickly. Comfort and familiarity should never lead to carelessness and complacency, however. Treat your weapon with respect and follow the basic safety rules that you will be taught, religiously and without fail.
Shooting skillfully takes longer for most, and, unfortunately, the CF can seldom afford to be generous with ammunition. There are never enough truly good coaches available on the range, either.
Do not fear this, but look forward to it and determine to do well.
My standard method of self-motivation when faced with a challenge is a simple reminder that "dumber people than me have been able to do this".