need hair advice!

i’m growing out my hair after cutting it short for years. i have VERY thick hair, and when it gets longer it starts looking awkward. the top will be flat from the weight and ends still thick and big. should i get layers?

if so, should i get them now (hair is bra strap length but already lookin weighed down) or later when it’s long..? not sure how touching up/adding layers works. thanks! also, any tips on growing out hair?