It may seem obvious to set a weight-loss goal that's realistic, but how do you know what that is? Depending on your weight, 5% of your current weight may be a realistic goal. If you're 180 pounds (82 kilograms), 5% is 9 pounds (4 kilograms). Even this level of weight loss can help lower your risk for chronic health problems, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.