Zayn Malik was candid about his reason for leaving One Direction in 2015. In his memoir, the "Still Got Time" artist opened up how he struggled with anxiety in the wake of their success as a boy group. He even reached the point where he felt like he was being insincere of what he was doing despite the popularity and attention they were getting from fans all over the world.
He added that their hectic schedule has taken its toll on him and has caused him anxiety. Although part of him wanted to continue working with One Direction, Zayn Malik said his heart has made him decide to step back and go the other way.
Of leaving One Direction at the height of fame
"I needed to reconnect with my family and feel some normality again," he wrote as cited by ET Online. "Finally, it was my mom who gave me the reassurance I needed to go with my decision."
While he was still with the band, the "Pillowtalk" singer revealed that he suffered from eating disorder and saw its effects on his health. "I’d just go for days -- sometimes two or three days straight -- without eating anything at all," he added.
After he had discussed his struggle with anxiety in his book, the former One Direction member told his fans that there is nothing to be ashamed of if someone if battling this kind of disorder. Zayn Malik, meanwhile, confessed that he was more prone to psychological stress when he started promoting as a solo artist.
Hence, the soloist has decided to be open about his condition rather than hide it from his fans. Two years after his departure from One Direction, it cannot be denied that Zayn Malik is still doing pretty well on his own. In fact, his lead single, "Pillowtalk," topped several music charts after it was released in January 2016.
Life after One Direction exit
When asked about how he was doing after he left One Direction to pursue a solo career, the 24-year-old artist honestly said that he is still not used to socializing with a bunch of people. "It's been a year since I've properly shown my face," he revealed in his Vogue interview.
Zayn Malik went on and said he does not want to appear arrogant and conceited in the eyes of the public.
He, however, clarified that he is not fond of pretending to be someone significant. "I feel like I'm one voice among millions," he continued.
The solo artist added that he has always been introvert even after he and the One Direction boys were at the height of their success. "I always feel like I'm trying to work through whatever certain issues are around certain subjects," Zayn Malik explained.
