This takes me back to high school and university years. I remember how annoyed and irritated I used to get when I saw somebody cheating during an exam. You would find some people, instead of studying, they'd be busy preparing cheat notes. I mean where is the honor in that. The same time you spend preparing your cheat notes is the same time you could be using to study. But I think it also says something about self esteem and confidence, morale and self-value.
At the same time I know the feeling of achieving and getting what you were aiming at. Even though it may not always be the best result, but you will find comfort and pride in the fact that you've earned your results. You've what you've got, nobody gave you anything. Nobody can claim that they are responsible for your success except yourself. I am totally with you @anomadsoul. I am also like that. I take pride in what I do and I've earned my position in life. No nepotism or unfair advantage or whatever, got me where I am today. But sadly, not everyone can say that.