4. Get Rid of Credit Card Debt Entirely.
Finally, if there's one attainable goal to strive for by the time you hit 40, it's to eliminate credit card debt from your finances entirely. With high interest rates and draconian fees, the cost of carrying balances on credit cards is greater than with most other types of loans. The interest you save by paying down card balances and then paying off future charges every month is greater than the return on nearly any investment you could make. And best of all, it's a sure thing. In addition, getting credit card debt defeated will give you the confidence to tackle the rest of your debt picture as well.