Hi ToeJam, I suppose the "block" thing could have made it more "real", brought it outside of yourself, gave you something actual to challenge??? Less of a threat???
Different things work for different people so sometimes it's about trying different things to see what resonates with you.
I don't know that I'd be "over worried" about progress slowing a bit though, as progress won't always be easy flowing and there may be some stops and starts in therapy, the main thing is you're getting somewhere overall though. Just do what you can to get progress moving at whatever speed as much as you can.
The being more "considered", less of a risk taker can come with age and experience as well though (although I'm not saying you're that old!! ). Although it can be really beneficial in some aspects it can sometimes go into overdrive if it has with you??
And, yes, spontaneity can be good at times, breaks you out of routines, "norms"/expectations that can bind you, and you know "life's too short" as well so why not!!
And you can start anywhere with that, if you've talked about things with your therapist great, otherwise maybe doing a new activity, saying something to someone you've wanted to but not said, making a change in your routine, suddenly taking your wife out somewhere , buy yourself some rollerboots and set off around your local park !!!
I'm sure you've got some other ideas though
Thanks for the up-date though!!!
Sure you'll be getting better posts from others on here (!!), so for now:

Alison