The Citizens are 14 points clear at the top of the Premier League table and on course for a third title in four years, but Guardiola says "words cannot inject desire" into his players.
Guardiola’s men have now won their last 21 games in all competitions and are now two short of equaling Bayern Munich’s record of 23 successive wins for a top-flight from any of Europe’s ‘top five’ leagues and six behind Welsh side TNS’ world record.
Speaking ahead of Manchester City’s home game against Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday, Guardiola has urged his men to be calm.
"It [desire] comes from wanting to compete with team mates and do the best we can," said the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss.
"People are saying nice things because we are winning. The smell when you win is beautiful but we can lose. That's why our perspective is calm.
"We always think we can do better but it’s about how we handle good moments. When you win something, it doesn't mean you will win in the future. We have been magnificent, no one can deny it, but you don't win in March. I see something in the team. Everyone wants to win.
The Manchester clubs played out a tepid goalless draw in their last meeting in December but Guardiola says the game was played while his side were "not at their best".
"The [derby] game [in December] was not good, the analysis said it was boring," added Guardiola.
"But we admit in that period we were not at our best. But the intention was to try and win the game."
