I was wondering if it was based on individuals with no t'a'veren natures or special abilities somehow distinguishing themselves by always living in a way consistent with the nature of their souls despite having no prior memories.

But given the cyclical nature of the Wheel, that would seem to lead to some redundancy where some people are getting awarded despite not really earning it. It doesn't leave much room for normal people to consistently accomplish something without repetitive patterns being set up by the Pattern.