Acquel74,
I share your goal of being guided by your own opinions.
Self care is so important.

Flu like symptoms for me. Usually achy mostly in my legs, fatigue and just a feeling of unwell. I describe it like feeling like I’m coming down with something but never getting sick. There are different levels of flares too!

To janeeustenread
I am old now 65 years.
When I was your age I did and felt the same as you..
Not great but able to push through 12 hour work days and resulting in symptom’s exactly as you described.
I knew I had to pull back.
After a long thought about lack of finances etc by cutting work back my rheumatologist asked the question what’s more important balanced and happier life or dropping dead on the work floor.
Harsh I know. But it was what I needed to hear.
So I cut my losses threw out the great dream and settled for part time work and a small studio apartment. This was when I was 58. Took a bit of adjusting but haven’t looked back. My youngest grandchild is now 12 and I didn’t miss out on any of the 3 of them growing up.
So am content now.
Good luck fellow lupus warrior. The extra free time is great.🥰🌸💜

Fatigue is the worst thing for me to deal with. At 72 years of age I want to enjoy my last years, but what I want and what I get are very different. I am a breast cancer survivor (since 1990) and have always considered myself a fighter. Lupus is my nemesis...it wins some days and I still fight. When a flare gets the best of me, I say to the Lord, "let me be still and rest until you renew my strength." That gets me through every flare. Hurricane Ian left us with much damage to the home we are building. Much to my amazement this journey has helped me to understand what is important. I have acquainted myself with the new attitude of being grateful for the many years of a good life. Each new day brings hope that a cure for lupus is found for all of us.

Yep thats the definition that I use, whenever my body doesnt feel right or my joints are hurting, swelling, anything any symptom I am having a flare and my doctors look at it the same way