long asian male hair

The way you are growing it out is a good method. Letting the top hair grow to your ears and keeping it blunt cut as it grows (instead of having short layers all over) will help it look better as it grows. (Though since you have asian hair, I don't necessarily mean blunt as in a straight line. It may look better thinned slightly on the last inch so it's more "pointy"). Also if you're having a problem with the texture on the sides, this method will keep your side hair hidden and weighed down as it grows out because the longer layers on top will cover it, and eventually you should have the top long enough to be able to stop shaving the sides.

Growing your hair out is always painful, and it often goes through stages (on everyone) where it doesn't look so great at the "in between stage". You just have to be patient and put up with it until it gets past it (or wear lots of hats). If you really want it long, it will be worth it.