I used to skip it, thinking it was too much hassle. Now I see the same folks every day and we nod hello, it feels kinda nice. Makes the whole ride less stressful.
Honestly, figuring out the small stuff makes a huge difference. Try to grab the same door to board each day, and you'll start to see the same people holding it. Find a coffee shop near your exit to make the walk feel like a tiny reward. That spot by the window, third car from the front, is always my first pick now.