benefits of playing chess
It helps you master parallel parking.
I think you can gain a lot from it. Good sportmanship is one. Now I don't think chess has ever transformed my life. I just play because it's an awesome game and a good relaxation. I long ago gave up hope of becoming a great chess player or anything.
My interest in learning languages has been a bigger benefit for me than chess, but for many I believe chess has a good benefit.
Most important is that you have fun with it!