I know that it's usually not recommended, but given that you're having to risk so much of your BR playing each hand, you might think about buying in short stack while you build that $10. You can get by with a buyin of $2 for most of the play at NL$10, and probably end up building your BR while losing less of it. Should cut down your variance at least.

I'm a proponent of short-stack play even when you have other options (if you're better than the opposition), as it allows you to play at a higher (more profitable) level. However, I can see the arguments against it. I'm sure it's a much better option all around than putting 50-100% of your BR in jeopardy every time you sit down.