I find this incredibly sad for many reasons.

Taking time off to work for the company that doesn't let you work for them during normal work hours.

The irony is so strong but I understand the sentiment and why you'd do it

Doesn't let you do the work that you want to do*

The thinking and talking is still work

Did not expect to find someone who does the same thing as me. I am actually kind of embarrassed I’ve taken sick days just to work without interruption or to investigate some tech I wouldn’t get company time to research (“we need you pumping out code, whats learning? You already know everything you’ll ever need!”)

I used to take sick days for that reason when I worked in an open office space. Then, I realized how dumb that was and quit that job.

That's the biggest red flag I've seen in a long time.

That’s really awful. These companies shouldn’t be allowed to exist. I mean, of course they always will, but many exist that aren’t like this.

Ugh, me too. These are really dark memories though.