I value my accomplishments on what I have the time and motivation for, simply. I play the game at my own pace and any comparison to my progression to another player's is put in a more optimistic perspective. Rather than "Wow, he must have alot of bot alts" or "He must be unemployed", it's easier to A). Admire their achievement, B). set a new goal to motivate myself even further to get there, C). enjoy the journey - the destination is only bittersweet.
Regardless, this isn't to say the players using third party software doesn't hurt the economy or discourage others - because it still does, yes.