It is worthwhile remembering that the idea of a thought is itself created by a thought. In reality there are neither thoughts nor no thoughts, nor any way of distinguishing between these,
The thought-free state you want to achieve exists as a separate thing only from the perspective of the conditioned, thinking mind. From this viewpoint there is a conditioned mind, an unconditioned mind and a way from one to the other. However, all this exists only as ideas. Once you realize these thoughts refer to nothing real beyond themselves, the same thoughts appear transparent with little impact on you.
In the unconditioned mind, there are neither thoughts nor their absence. There is no conditioned mind, no unconditioned mind and no way, steps or transition from one non-existent state to another equally non-existent state. Even the concept of a state, a way, steps or transition is empty and refers to nothing real.
At this point none of this disturbs, or even occupies you any more. Resting in the unconditioned mind is neither this nor different from this.
My recommendation would be to forget the whole issue. By being kind to yourself and to others, by acting relevantly each moment, you are totally fulfilled. Who could ask more of you.
Enjoy your life,
Jonathan