This article first appeared on the Weekly Log newsletter.

Any Bullet Journalist can recognize times where our actions remain open, migrated for several days, weeks, or even months. Sometimes, it’s because an action is too big to fit into a single entry. But other times, it’s because we we’ve mistakenly listed actions that are actually outcomes beyond our control, setting ourselves up for unnecessary stress and, sometimes, failure.

I learned this the hard way while working in the agency world. As a designer leading a team, I frequently gave presentations to major tech companies. The pressure was immense—my team's success and my company's future hinged on these presentations. I would write things down like "Knock the presentation out of the park" or "Win the deal and get the contract signed." These actions and goals seemed straightforward, but they were the wrong ones.

Even when I delivered the best presentation of my life, the outcome was not always favorable. Why? Because the decision to award the contract was out of my control. It was in the hands of the client. This realization was a game-changer. I learned that my goals needed to focus not on the outcome but on what I could control— the process.

By shifting my focus to what I could control—preparing thoroughly, getting enough rest, taking great notes, and following up effectively—I began to win more often. It wasn’t necessarily by securing the contract, but by consistently performing at my best. When the process itself becomes the goal, you win, regardless of whether you achieve an external outcome. Some examples of how you can transform your actions:

“Fix the issue” can become “search the help articles,” “ask for screenshots,” or “contact support.”

“Find a therapist” can become “call insurance,” “read about types of therapy,” or “identify my therapy goals.”

"Plan a playdate" can become "reach out to other parents," "choose a location," or "discuss availability."

There’s a reason why “Control” is the first step of the Migration Filter in the Bullet Journal Method. By focusing on what is within your control, you can eliminate actions, refine your plan, and increase your chances of success. Give it a try this week.