Malik, who broke the news to the band's 36 million Facebook fans after five years with the band, is said to be suffering from stress and quit the band in search of some "private time".
"I'd like to apologise to the fans if I've let anyone down, but I have to do what feels right in my heart. I am leaving because I want to be a normal 22-year-old who is able to relax and have some private time out of the spotlight.
"I know I have four friends for life in Louis, Liam, Harry and Niall. I know they will continue to be the best band in the world."
While the announcement was a shock to the world, Zayn's optimism and gratitude shines through.
Here are nine other incredibly inspirational quotes from the star.
Zayn Malik quotes
(01 of09)
Open Image Modal(02 of09)
Open Image Modal(03 of09)
Open Image Modal(04 of09)
Open Image Modal(05 of09)
Open Image Modal(06 of09)
Open Image Modal(07 of09)
Open Image Modal(08 of09)
Open Image Modal(09 of09)
Open Image Modal7 People Who Could Replace Zayn Malik On One Direction's Tour
His own waxwork(01 of07)
Open Image ModalMadame Tussaud's probably won't miss it, and who would notice? It's such a perfect replica! (credit:Mark Cuthbert/UK Press via Getty Images)
Sinitta(02 of07)
Open Image ModalSinitta seems to be doing the rounds on various celeb reality shows, so we think it'd be a good way to reclaim her career by getting in on the 1D action! (credit:David M. Benett/Getty Images)
Matt Cardle(03 of07)
Open Image ModalThe poor guy could do with a bit of success... (credit:ASSOCIATED PRESS)
Nick Clegg(04 of07)
Open Image ModalHe won't have a job soon, so Clegg is obviously the perfect candidate to fly out and fill in for Zayn.
By the time the general election is over, the Lib Dem leader will probably need some time away, and what better place that on tour with One Direction? (credit:Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Steve Brookstein(05 of07)
Open Image ModalOur first ever X Factor winner must be a bit jealous of the Direction boys' fame, after falling completely out of the limelight within months of winning the show's first edition in 2004.
It's even obvious in his latest album title, 'Forgotten Man', which failed to reach any charts. Ouch. (credit:Andy Sheppard/Redferns)
Jeremy Clarkson(06 of07)
Open Image ModalWell, he's not very busy at the moment...
Clarkson has been in a state of job limbo since the "fracas" that led to his suspension from 'Top Gear'. We'd certainly like to see him try to compete with Harry on stage. (credit:Ian West/PA Archive/Neil Mockford/Alex Huckle/Getty Images)
David Tennant(07 of07)
Open Image ModalWith Broadchurch finished for another season, the loveable Scot could do with an interim gig. We think he'd fit in perfectly with 1D.
Rumour has it, he's not a bad singer. (credit:Todd Williamson/Invision/AP)