Besides saving money on gas and parking (when it could be found), the stresses of bumper to bumper traffic and possibly time; here is one I did not expect and a few other benefits I discovered.
- Managers and co-workers understood a schedule. When you rode public transportation, it was understandable if you had to leave at a certain time or arrived late (out of your control). If you left early because you drove or were in a carpool, you would be considered having a 9 to 5 attitude. Some would ask if you couldn't find another way home. Same with coming in late due to weather or traffic: public transportation, OK; any other method, you should have left earlier.
- I did more reading (business and pleasure). Bad traffic = more pages read.
- Some employers pay all or part of the public transportation fees. Some even paid for a taxi if you expecting had to stay late or come in early.
- I met new people, made new friends.
- I got into better shape by walking to and from the bus stop. It got my blood flowing - I was alert.
- Wind down time before getting home. Had more energy when I got home.
- Lower auto insurance rates because of where and how much the car was driven.
- Discovered new places in the city.