I was never able to achieve the self-awareness you describe on my own. I suspect you developed some abilities early in life-- self-analysis, etc.-- that are unique. And your interest in philosophy and existentialism probably provided some critical context.
For me, I saw what was immoral about me putting alcohol in my body-- I could hurt someone driving, I could insult or degrade a woman, I could not be there for the people who count on me. I knew all these things. But I kept doing it.
I think people in recovery can wind up in similar places by different routes, but I believe humility, humanism and willingness are common themes in most recovery stories.