Here is a book by the Red Hawk - poet, philosopher, follower of the teachings of George Gurdjieff and Peter Ouspensky. The author considers one of the central tools of this esoteric trend - self-observation.
If we do not have awareness, we act unconsciously, out of habit, mechanically. It only seems to us that we are conscious and awake because our eyes are open. But habit does not require consciousness, so we move on autopilot, without will and intention, deep down we sleep. And because of our automatism, we inevitably cause harm - to ourselves, our loved ones and the world as a whole.
Only by returning our attention to the present moment, observing ourselves - patiently and unappreciatively - can we change something. One day, noting that we are endlessly repeating the same course of action, we will choose a different way of responding. Gradually we will stop being a victim of our habits. And we will begin to find - naturally and organically - an inner core and balance in feelings, thoughts and actions.
Self-observation is of paramount importance for the process of awakening the soul from its unconscious dreams.