I think we are spoiled by coming from WoW tanks. I mained Pally, with many server firsts just like you, it was my job to make sure things stuck to me. Always me, everyone on me.
It seems with TOR, we don't necessarily need to worry about holding threat on EVERYTHING. I tell me groups to kill Normals > Silvers > Golds > Champs
I will prioritize holding threat on Golds, and taunt/threat on Silvers as needed. I have had no issues with this. When CC is needed, CC silvers, burn normals, tank Golds.