Diego Perez, better known as Yung Pueblo, has become a leading voice in self-growth and relationships, amassing over 3 million Instagram followers and selling more than 1.5 million books worldwide. His works, including Lighter and Clarity and Connection, have resonated deeply with readers, and his latest book, How to Love Better, delves into building stronger, healthier relationships.
Perez’s inspiration for the book comes from his own marriage to his wife, Sara. Their 17-year relationship transformed as he focused on personal growth, recognizing that self-awareness played a key role in improving communication and reducing conflict. In their early years together, miscommunication and blame created unnecessary tension. Through meditation and self-reflection, Perez realized that emotional triggers, often unrelated to the relationship itself, fueled many arguments.
One strategy he credits for strengthening their bond is “preventative communication”—regularly checking in with each other throughout the day to express emotions before they escalate. This simple practice significantly reduced their conflicts and helped them respond to each other with more patience and understanding.
Meditation has been a cornerstone of Perez’s journey. His first Vipassana retreat in 2011 marked a turning point after years of substance abuse. Struggling with addiction, he hit rock bottom and realized he was jeopardizing his life and the sacrifices his immigrant parents had made. Determined to change, he embraced meditation, which not only helped him heal but also sparked his creative journey.
After attending multiple retreats, including a 45-day silent meditation, Perez experienced a profound mental shift. He began sharing his poetry on Instagram in 2014, which quickly gained traction, leading him to write self-help books focused on emotional healing and relationships.
His latest book offers practical guidance on navigating love and conflict. He encourages readers to reframe arguments as opportunities for deeper understanding rather than battles to win. He also emphasizes the importance of choosing a partner based on personal growth rather than superficial traits. Relationships, he says, are long-term journeys that require evolution, and those willing to grow together find lasting connection.
Beyond romance, Perez believes these principles apply to all relationships—friendships, family, and community. Understanding others, stepping outside personal perspectives, and embracing flexibility in relationships are key to living harmoniously. His philosophy encourages letting go of control and allowing relationships to flow naturally, fostering deeper connections in every aspect of life.
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