I have had this idea in mind for some years: write an historical novel. Beside the usual steps, you need to do a lot of research and show authenticity -- your readers want to learn and immerse themselves in the historical setting. You would let them down if you do not show your knowledge of the time period. This has blocked me for a while because I would need to consult many resources. Another thing is the fact that I am particularly invested in the plot as I am somewhat personally connected with the stories that I would like to relate. Finding the right balance between history and fiction is paramount. So I sit here with so many ideas and possible plots without a real outline to show off yet. Has it ever occurred to you? To be willingly ready but not concretely prepared to start a new project?
Nice post.