Then use an instance ID instead of an object ID, simple as that.
Before you can get at an instance ID, you must first answer the question "Which?" with absolute certainty. That is not apparent from the way you post. Do that first, then find the function or combination of functions that will enable you to get it.
For example, if you want an arbitrary instance:
Code:
with (instance_find(obj_unit, irandom(instance_number(obj_unit)-1))) {
instance_change(obj_sawmill, true);
}
Or if you want one that your mouse cursor is over:
Code:
with (instance_position(mouse_x, mouse_y, obj_unit)) {
instance_change(obj_sawmill, true);
}