corporate and personal finance are also similar where investment is concerned. Sometimes the best way to reduce costs is to spend more money A family that is having difficulty paying its energy bills can invest in better insulation and a more modern heating system. Companies that invest in new equipment or better software can reduce long- term costs. This kind of one-time cost is often the explanation when well-managed companies appear to be losing money. In conclusion, a family or a company that has temporary financial difficulties can recover quickly if the problem is managed carefully. Most banks won't take back a car, a home or a factory when a customer 55 misses just one payment, especially if the customer has warned them in advance. But of course, families or businesses that regularly miss payments will soon have even bigger problems.