should i grow my hair out before starting neglect method????

Hey guys I'm growing dreads for the 1st time ever & want to go natural neglect;

lately my hair has shrunk heaps & the back has formed together there aretwo 3" flat locs that stick out;

at the front I have a messy knot which i ripped my hair does'nt look like its dreading it just looks rugged'

I started natural with short hair about 5-6" shouldI take out the knots & start over when my hairs longer or will it get better over time?