harkintaveto

Harkintaveto is a Finnish term that translates literally to "consideration pull" or "gravity of consideration." It describes the phenomenon where a person's attention or interest is drawn towards something, often unconsciously, because it aligns with their existing thoughts, concerns, or interests. It is not a formal psychological term but rather a colloquial expression used in everyday Finnish to explain why certain topics or ideas seem to stand out or repeatedly surface in one's mind.

The concept suggests that our internal mental state acts as a kind of filter, making us more receptive to information that resonates with what we are already thinking about or preoccupied with. For example, if someone is worried about a particular health issue, they might notice more articles or conversations related to that health issue, even if those topics were always present but previously overlooked. This perceived increase in relevance is attributed to the "harkintaveto." It highlights how our focus and mental preoccupations can shape our perception of the world around us, making us more attuned to certain stimuli. The term implies a passive, almost magnetic pull towards relevant information, rather than an active search. It is often used to explain coincidences or a feeling of "the universe sending a sign."