The England winger has flourished since Guardiola's arrival at Manchester City this summer.
Last year, Sterling struggled to live up to his £47million price tag and found critics at every corner.
It all came to a head at the European Championships when England fans singled him out for a poor performance in the draw with Russia leading to Sterling posting a picture on his instagram, labelling himself 'The Hated One'.
But his new manager at the Etihad offered a small gesture that went a long way to building Sterling's confidence back up by calling him during his time with the England squad to offer words of advice.
And the Citizens are reaping the rewards of the 21-year-old's form having made a perfect start to the Premier League this season.
The 21-year-old has scored in each of City's last three competitive matches and he expects more to follow if Guardiola continues to allow him to express himself.
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"Coming in this year, it's been different," he told the Mail on Sunday.
"I had five minutes with Pep and he showed me on the board where he wants me to be and what he wants me to do and he said the rest was down to me.
"He said with my ability I needed to get at my defenders, try to make crosses and score and as soon as I lose the ball, get back into position.
"Against West Ham, I scored a goal and he wasn't happy because I didn't go at my full-back as much as he wanted and I had lots of opportunities.
"I feel I have more freedom to express myself now. I'm not going to lie about that — I feel much more free.
"When I get the ball, I have the authority to be myself and try to create chances and be free."