From college savings to career changes: The smartest things to do with your money in your 40s

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It's ok if you don't have everything figured out by now.

By the time you get to your 40s, you've checked off a lot of financial firsts.

When you were younger, you might have assumed you'd have everything figured out by now. But as soon as you master one aspect of your money, another challenge - or opportunity - seems to pop up.

Your 40s bring a new set of financial priorities, especially if you have children. Now is the time to start thinking seriously about funding their college education, not to mention teaching them important lessons about money.

In your own life, you might be ready to mix things up - whether by changing your job, your career, or moving to a new house. Perhaps even all three.

Everyone's situation and needs are different, but one thing is certain: After making it through two decades of adulthood, you've definitely earned a vacation. It's worth adding the dream trip you've been putting off for years to your to-do list as well. Just make sure you plan for it - as well as the following top financial priorities to focus on in your 40s - before you take off.