MaryEllen Whitton didn’t set out to become an author. In fact, she calls herself an “accidental” one — a woman who began writing not for an audience, but for her daughter, during a moment of struggle that needed light.
What started as simple handwritten “I AM” statements, created to uplift someone she loved, soon became a lifeline for herself.
Those small notes sparked a transformative journey, revealing the power of words, mindset, and intention to reshape a life.
Today, that deeply personal beginning has blossomed into Lean Into Your Light, an award-winning guide that has touched thousands of readers worldwide. With its blend of grounded wisdom, spiritual insight, and practical exercises, the book serves as a beacon for anyone who has ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from their true self. Critics and readers alike praise MaryEllen for her clarity, compassion, and ability to meet people exactly where they are — gently guiding them toward confidence, calm, and renewed purpose.
From empowering “I AM” statements to mindset-shifting reflections, MaryEllen’s message is simple but profound: your light has always been there — it’s time to step back into it.
I met MaryEllen in a Facebook group for authors, and she agreed to share writing tips with us and more about her writing process.
Thank you MaryEllen!
Check out this Podcast interview with MaryEllen Whitton
How long have you been writing, and what first inspired you to start?
- I joke and say I am an accidental author who wrote a book backwards! My inspiration started about 7 years ago when I was texting my daughter uplifting “I am” statements when she was in a negative headspace and then turned them into a hand-written book.
- When a friend of hers saw it, she loved it and asked if I would make her one, which I did. Then I thought there might be a broader audience for my material.
- The I am statements are how I end my book and I explain, among other points, why our word choices are so powerful.
What genre do you write—and what genres do you personally love to read?
- I write non-fiction and generally read both non-fiction and fiction.
Who are some of your favorite authors or books that have shaped you as a writer?
- I also follow the creators of Lifebook, Jon & Missy Butcher, the founder of Mindvalley, Vishen Lakhiani and a lot of Esther/ Abraham Hicks!
- Additional influences are the late Neville Goddard, Catherine Ponder, Louise Hay, and Wayne Dyer.
Every writer has their own rhythm—what does your writing routine look like on a good day?
- I generally only write when I feel the nudge…and then ride that wave! Sometimes it lasts a few days or a few weeks.
Was there a moment while writing this book when everything suddenly clicked (or when you almost threw the manuscript across the room)?
Yes! I hadn’t told anyone I was writing a book. When I finally decided to share it with one of my closest girlfriends, she was super encouraging and very enthusiastic!
She put me in touch with her friend, Sue Krebs, who recently published a book. Sue gave me an introduction to her publisher and editor, Keryl Pesce at Little Pink Press, who loved my story and decided it was great fit to work together. The rest is history, as they say!
What books, movies, or personal experiences have influenced your storytelling the most?
- In my case it’s my life experience and my journey of personal development.
If you could give one piece of advice to new or aspiring writers, what would you tell them?
- Write your thoughts down! No matter how random they may seem.
- Write on anything available, text or email yourself.
- You may think you will remember it, however in my experience, it can be lost in the busyness of your day.
What’s one fun or unexpected fact about you that readers wouldn’t guess from your official bio?
I backpacked through South America in my twenties!
How do you stay motivated or creative when the writing gets tough?
- When I feel like I’m ‘stuck’, I step away and generally do something to get my energy flowing, like a walk, a bike ride, yoga, etc.
Where can readers follow you online and keep up with your future books?
You can visit my home page here or by clicking the picture to the right.
Lean Into Your Light: A Guide to Transforming Your Mindset Through the Power of Language
Is available on Amazon:
- Hardback
- Paperback
- Kindle
Thank you David for this terrific article! And congratulations on your new book, Escala’s Wish!