I want to be in grad school, want to have my career started, want a serious relationship. You're young, and impatience is the luxury of youth. The hormones are pushing you to get out, get going, be somebody. You must, however, take things in steps, the same as the rest of us. It's best if you simply know this and do it, but if you need instruction, life itself will teach you.
Life is a merciless instructor.
Apply to grad school and go dancing. I like to have our extended family events together, making sure to include our children and respective partners and elderly parents on both sides, but his current live-in lady gives me the cold shoulder and acts like a gorilla in our midst. My ex is in denial and keeps inviting me in spite of this gorilla in our midst. Confused Dear Confused, A simple switch of venue might solve this. Talk to your children and propose that you, and not the ex, be the host of these get-togethers.