I always scrutinize my thoughts and mind, being detached from them. I recognize my thoughts as the ego, the soul that needs a material interface, the brain, to drive the mind and body. I am familiar with my ego but not so much with the soul, of which I have but fleeting glimpses.
Life often looks surreal, like the screen on a computer game. Life after all is a cosmic simulation. Science is starting to be aware of this.
Looking at my life this incarnation I would say my deep experiences with the soul are also fleeting. But I do feel the presence of spirit almost daily. I think that anyone would if they just did a little meditation and constantly practiced the presence.
Experience with the ego is also a daily function. It requires constant effort at redirecting negative thought patterns for me. And hoping to see myself like others do to gain perspective.