It’s not worth pointing out anecdotal instances of these occurrences since it’s so personalized and dependent on ones own experiences and state of mind.

What it offers, though — in the only way I know how to describe — is an alternative perspective. It’s like stepping outside of your usual self and evaluating things from an almost objective and completely different point of view. It’s this perspective that allows for revelations that otherwise wouldn’t happen in a sober state. This is a result of physiology and the chemical interactions in the brain due to ingestion of the substance.

It’s quite an amazing experience. Sometimes it can be scary, or odd or just funny. But in my experience, it has led to some very profound experiences and insights.

I haven't tried any of the "real" psychedelics, but I can tell you my experience of insights I gained from high doses of pot, with almost no tolerance as there are many months to years between occasions.

It made me pay attention to different things than I would normally pay attention to - things I arguably should have paid more attention to. Specifically social cues. I would repeat peoples words in my head over and over. I would go over written words and try to imagine the tone of voice very carefully.

It also made me change my behavior (temporarily), partly as a result of the different way I was paying attention. I got to see how people responded to that changed behavior (they responded very positively).

Yeah, what's been said already is pretty much on point with my experience. I think I mostly just recognize weird or bad behaviours of mine once I can analyze myself with significantly less ego.

It's absolutely possible while sober, but it can be quite effortless and accidental on a trip. I'm also not so sure all people have these experiences while sober, even if they could - it takes work. Psychedelics can be good at breaking down mental patterns and guards, exposing the things you typically miss or avoid.