Self-aware
Awareness of the self is the surest sign of the emergence of consciousness. Before becoming self-aware, a brain acts robotically, reacting to its environment based on pre-programmed genetic algorithms we call instinct. When the feedback loop is fully developed, we become aware of our thoughts and see ourselves as a subjective being.
Self-awareness can also refer to the development of self-knowledge through the study of psychology or meditation.
Both forms of self-awareness should be encouraged.