How to ask for time off work and actually get it

More than half of Americans don’t use all of their vacation days, according to a study by US Travel Association’s Project Time Off.

But taking a break can keep your relationship with your family healthy and flourishing.

And, contrary to what you might think, asking for time off could even impress your boss.

“You don’t have to be scared or worry to ask for a week off,” career and wellness coach Joanna Echols told Business Insider.

“When I was still in my corporate leadership roles I would always value the people who could ask for what they needed with a polite confidence,” Echols said. “I believe that if you know how to take care of your own needs you will also be able to take good care of the company’s needs as well.”

You’ll make your boss and colleagues even happier if you ask and prepare for your time off in a way that respects everyone’s schedule. Here’s how to ask for — and receive — vacation time.