FACT: American workers forfeited almost 50% of their paid time off in 2017, according to Glassdoor data.

1. Set a clear schedule in advance so your employees and customers know you’ll be away. Make sure your staffers understand who’s in charge of different areas of your business before you leave. Let employees know exactly how to contact you in case of emergency.

2. Try to take vacations around holidays when clients are likely not working either.

3. When you set your away email and voicemail messages, direct people to someone on your team who can handle their request in your absence.

4. If you work alone, reach out to top customers before you go away to get a good read on upcoming projects. Make a timeline with clients so they’re comfortable future orders will be processed smoothly.

5. Actively encourage your employees to use their vacation. Cross-train staffers so employees feel good about leaving their work with someone else while they’re out of the office.