Buddha's lifetime - was I there?

While I was reading a book just now about counseling, I had a sudden thought.. Spiritually I'm quite inclined, had I been incarnated for countless times, since Buddha was here? Was I there already with the many monks that were following Buddha? And immediately I had another "answer". Yes I was already there. And was a high monk that was following Buddha, but pride made me fail. I think there is lust too, but primary is pride that stopped my liberation. 

This lifetime I should take note and carefully subdue my pride. Have understanding of why it arises and how to neutralize it.