Yeah, I agree with almost all that's being said here. If you're flooring it, you are going to have to wait a second or two after you put the clutch in before you can let it out again. The ideal method is finding the best rpm for the gear you are moving into. The steps would go something like this:
1) Run it to redline
2) Get off the gas right away while putting the clutch in
3) Shift gears
4) Wait for it to drop to about 4-5000
5) Let the clutch out and jump on the gas again

It all depends on where the shift points are and what style your driving is. It really just comes down to learning the car (practice) and finding your comfort zone. The rest is natural.

 

Okay, now i could be completely wrong, but i was always taught to never shift into 1st gear while the car is moving. if the car is moving even a little bit you can use second to get moving faster or keep your speed. You can even start your car in second. I'm sure the syncros help you get into 1st while moving I've never done it w/o having a realy rough shift into that gear., To stop rambling just shift into second and slip the clutch a little you'll get more pull outta the engine anyway.