I always call it taking the time to read a person. I am best with women I can read. When you think about it, abusers read people: They use it for control. But why not use it to be kind, to anticipate needs? To know when to hug and know when to quietly sit close by? Or that a woman doesn't want it rough, she wants it soft and very sweet. Or the other way around...

Can a person make a conscious effort to be more empathetic? Damn if I know. But I also know a person can be consciously sympathetic and care.