In order to run (execute) a macro:
Activation/Deactivation is a dynamic process, automatically set by the Keyboard Maestro Engine as your Mac's environment changes in real time. The criteria for activation is set by the user in the Macro Group setup.
If you are having trouble understanding Macro and Macro Group Activation, or trouble controlling when Conflict Palettes appear, then take a look at these Keyboard Maestro Forum posts.