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 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.