Hi everyone,
I have tried to write this essay within the time constraints without referring to any other essays on the similar topic. I have my GRE in 5 days. Kindly point out the areas in which I lack and how I can improvise.

Issue:

The first step to self-knowledge is rejection of the familiar.

Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position

Response :

Self-knowledge or understanding of one's character and motives is undoubtedly one of the most important phases that an individual goes through. Living in self-denial not only hampers a person's individuality but also renders him hopeless along the path of life. While having a familiarity about your inner self is definitely required but in order to attain proper self-knowledge, one must let go of the familiar.
A child, the moment it is born, is classified into a certain religion, a social class or myriad of distinctions present in our society. As it burgeons, the environment by which it is surrounded affects it. Not only that, after a certain age, mostly teenage years; he starts understanding the norms of the society and tries to mold himself according to it. The will to be accepted, makes him forget his real self. Ever wondered why a child is never afraid of expressing it's inundating ideas; no matter how bizzare they might be. He is not afraid of rejection- the main thing that scares a grown up from realizing into their thoughts.
Having familiarity with the surroundings, no doubt helps a human adapt to it. But sometimes this same intimacy with the familiar leads to his downfall. Letting go of the familiar, would not only open up our mind to the novel, but help us in our path of self-discovery.
The famous Buddha, bought up in the confines of his father's kingdom, was completely unaware of the ill fate the people of his kingdom were facing. His desire to explore the world, made him realize the lies he was fed and the same "familiar" were the prevarications. The rejection of this familiarity eventually made him realize, what he really wanted and what he believed, leading to the most followed religion of the contemporary society- BUDDHISM.
Being familiar with our character and morals no doubt helps us understand what kind of person we are. But that person is the mold of our environment, not our true self. To acquire true self realization, one would have to cast aside the familiar and open up one's eyes towards really what lies within.